"GPC Goes Green" News - November 2011

Sustainable Autumn Living

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Autumn is the season of harvest. The harvest is a time of plenty for those who have been blessed with a bountiful growing season. It is also a time for final preparation before the chill of winter. For those who have plenty, this can be a season of celebration but, for those who are struggling, autumn can be a difficult time.

As people of God, we are called to be Christ's faithful evangelists in the world. Christ's earthly ministry was one of service to the poor and outcast. Autumn is a season full of service opportunities for individuals and their congregations. Together, we can work to bring about a more sustainable world and provide for people's immediate needs during this season of harvest by working diligently, celebrating responsibly, sharing the bounty, and preparing for winter.

Yard Waste and Cleanup: Dispose of yard waste sustainably by finding local composters or municipal facilities accepting organic matter. Add yard waste to home compost bins as space and pH levels allow. Some leaves can be used as mulch or insulating material for plants such as roses and shrubs during winter months.

Hunt and Fish Responsibly: As vegetable and fruit harvests draw to a close, hunting season begins in many areas. License fees support local conservation and wildlife protection efforts. Bring along a Bible or prayer book to enjoy during times of stillness while on the hunt. Find ways to use as much of the hunted animal as possible and donate extra meat to others in need. Let hunting and fishing be spiritual practices by giving thanks to God and taking only what is necessary.

Fall and Winter Farming and Gardening: As daylight hours shorten, the growing season comes to an end, and farmers and gardeners alike wind down their efforts. Some plants require fall planting and care. Root vegetables make excellent seasonal additions to fall and winter cooking.

Harvest Locally: Pumpkins, apples, corn, and other produce can usually be harvested locally. Visit a nearby farm and participate in a harvest. Pick out a pumpkin, enjoy fresh pressed cider, and talk to the growers. Learning more about your food and where it comes from creates a connection with growers and the earth that is missing from grocery shopping. Search for farms nearby.

Sweet Treats: Sugar, cocoa and vanilla, main ingredients in fall baking, are often harvested by children and workers under ghastly conditions. Support just harvesting and educate others about worker rights by distributing fairly traded candy and chocolate. Fair trade and organic options for sugar, cocoa, and vanilla are also available.

100-Mile Thanksgiving & Christmas: Celebrate Thanksgiving in a sustainable way by cooking and serving food that has been grown locally. Challenge friends and family to eat food that comes from farms less than 100 miles away from home. Eating locally supports local economies and sustainable, small-scale farming operations. Check out the PCUSA's alternative Thanksgiving ideas and Christmas ideas.

Walk outdoors: Give thanks to God by exploring the beauty of creation. Spend time outdoors by planning a walk around the neighborhood, a farm or wooded area. Take time to explore God's world and learn about the creation around you. Check the availability of migrating wildlife. Depending on your location, eagles, geese or even whales can be viewed.

Prayer: In every prayer, contemplate "give us this day our daily bread" and what it means for yourself and others. Prayer helps structure thoughts and actions as we make daily decisions about consumption, sharing, and community.

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