Excerpted from Cultivating Care for Creation, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his host! … [Read more...] about Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas, December 29
Lenten Guide – Second Sunday
Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what will … [Read more...] about Lenten Guide – Second Sunday
Vetting the Vote: Climate Change
Hurricane Florence is proving to be the most devastating extreme weather event in the history of North Carolina. Simultaneously, our state has been widely viewed as an outpost of climate change denial. In 2012, Raleigh lawmakers rejected a study prepared by the NC Coastal … [Read more...] about Vetting the Vote: Climate Change
DEQ Announces the Creation of a Secretary’s Environmental Justice & Equity Board
Last week North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality introduced members of the Secretary’s Environmental Justice and Equity Advisory Board during a ceremony in the agency’s Green Square Lobby. The scope of the Environmental Justice and Equity Advisory Board is to assist … [Read more...] about DEQ Announces the Creation of a Secretary’s Environmental Justice & Equity Board
Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power Plant
Duke University officials have announced the indefinite delay of plans to build a freestanding Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant and will instead focus its attention on expanding opportunities to use biogas and other environmentally friendly fuels for its growing energy … [Read more...] about Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power Plant
NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DC
In response to President Donald Trump and Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke’s proposal to auction off nearly every piece of America’s coastline to private oil companies, 34 religious leaders in North Carolina urged the Administration to invest in renewable energy instead of … [Read more...] about NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DC
Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent
Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who … [Read more...] about Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent
Don’t let Trump Repeal and Replace our Clean Power Plan
After failing to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act, the Trump administration now has its sights set on our Clean Power Plan. For this one, they won’t have to go through Congress. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has announced his intention to "withdraw the so-called … [Read more...] about Don’t let Trump Repeal and Replace our Clean Power Plan
What should the Peoples Climate Movement do next?
It has been three years since 400,000+ people came together in the streets of New York City for the first Peoples Climate March in 2014, and we've achieved a lot. But there is so much still on the line, perhaps more than ever before. This year and next are critical in the fight … [Read more...] about What should the Peoples Climate Movement do next?
Praying in Opposition to Fracked Gas Pipelines
The Atlantic Coast Pipeline met more opposition last week. This time in the form of a prayer gathering by faith leaders outside the Department of Environmental Quality office. DEQ and the Cooper administration are currently considering a 401 water quality permit application that … [Read more...] about Praying in Opposition to Fracked Gas Pipelines
Hurricanes and Interfaith Power & Light
Over the past week we have experienced a thousand-year flood in Houston and the most powerful storm ever to form in the Atlantic. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt says now is not the time to talk about climate change. But the mayor of Miami says “if this isn’t climate change, I … [Read more...] about Hurricanes and Interfaith Power & Light
Gov. Cooper Speaks Up for Protecting NC’s Coast
Governor Roy Cooper has announced his strong opposition to offshore drilling and seismic blasting along North Carolina’s coast. “Our coast is part of our identity,” he said, speaking to the press at Fort Macon State Park near Atlantic Beach Penny Hooper, NCIPL Leadership … [Read more...] about Gov. Cooper Speaks Up for Protecting NC’s Coast
More Wind Energy, Not Less
It is becoming a national trend for politicians to “divide and conquer” by attacking the wind industry while supporting other forms of clean energy. This is fracturing the renewable energy community as folks are being forced to take positions that do not support one another. As … [Read more...] about More Wind Energy, Not Less
Rising Up with Richmond County
"Biomass" may sound like a clean idea, but it actually means cutting down and turning trees into fuel pellets to be burned for energy — creating more carbon pollution than coal, accelerating global warming, and driving climate chaos. North Carolina's former governor opened the … [Read more...] about Rising Up with Richmond County
Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement
We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump's decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national … [Read more...] about Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement
The People’s Climate March — Called to Respond
Multi-faith pilgrims on a moral high road unified to honor God’s creation at the Peoples Climate March last month on the National Mall. The event, which came as a crescendo in a week of climate action, drew 200,000 people from every state, with broad support from more than 400 … [Read more...] about The People’s Climate March — Called to Respond
Science Must Matter to People of Faith
Crowds are gathered on this Earth Day in Washington, D.C. and in cities across the country to march for science and protect the deeply held value of truth and facts. They are marching to defend the vital role science plays in our communities and our world. They are marching … [Read more...] about Science Must Matter to People of Faith
Let NC Legislators Know You Care about Creation
NC Interfaith Power and Light’s lay and faith leader network is at the General Assembly on April 6 until 4 p.m. for their Advocating with Compassion Day. Even if you cannot be there to meet with your elected officials, please contact them to hear their visions for NC’s future and … [Read more...] about Let NC Legislators Know You Care about Creation
Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order
This week, Donald Trump issued an executive order to turn back the clock on the climate progress we have made over the past decade. In addition to directing the EPA to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, this sweeping executive order also attempts to undo methane standards for oil … [Read more...] about Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order
2017 Lenten Guide — Fourth Sunday
For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Spirit of Life, come unto me. Sing in my heart all the … [Read more...] about 2017 Lenten Guide — Fourth Sunday
Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power
Many people want to take meaningful action on climate change but don't know where to start. Taking a big step, like switching to solar, doesn't have to be hard. Any change is easier when you have a guide to point you the right way and when your community is on the same … [Read more...] about Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power
The Pipelines We Need and the Ones We Don’t
Last week President Trump signed executive actions to advance the construction of the Keystone, Dakota Access, and Atlantic Coast Pipelines. In the face of clear scientific consensus that our dependence on fossil fuels is jeopardizing our climate and threatening vulnerable … [Read more...] about The Pipelines We Need and the Ones We Don’t
Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18
Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven. But Ahaz said, I will not ask, and I … [Read more...] about Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18
NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7
Now, more than ever, we need you to put your faith into action. On April 29, under the banner of the People's Climate Movement, people of faith will join partners from environmental, environmental justice and student groups, labor unions, and many others for a major climate … [Read more...] about NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7
NC Council of Churches Stands with Standing Rock
Many of us have been following with great interest the resistance of Native Americans in North Dakota to the Dakota Access Pipeline. For the crime of defending their lands and waters - not to mention the climate of all of us -- the camp at Standing Rock has been met with … [Read more...] about NC Council of Churches Stands with Standing Rock
First in NC: Screening of “Before the Flood” in Raleigh on November 3
Join North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and the NC Council of Churches for a first in North Carolina screening of "Before the Flood," a film by Academy-Award winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Fisher Stevens. The film follows DiCaprio as he travels to five continents meeting … [Read more...] about First in NC: Screening of “Before the Flood” in Raleigh on November 3
Faith Groups Keep Pushing for Solar Access in NC
As the North Carolina Court of Appeals considers a Greensboro church’s use of a popular solar financing method, faith groups from across the state continue to support the call for greater access to affordable clean energy. Recently, the Southern Environmental Law Center … [Read more...] about Faith Groups Keep Pushing for Solar Access in NC
A Month to Reflect on Energy Efficiency
October is National Energy Awareness Month and the NC Council of Churches wants to empower congregations to do all they can to reduce their carbon footprint and move to clean energy. Through our NC Interfaith Power & Light program, we offer a free energy savings analysis for … [Read more...] about A Month to Reflect on Energy Efficiency
Growing a Partnership with Environmental Defense Fund
Two weeks ago I was selected as the keynote speaker at the Environmental Defense Fund NC’s Advisory Board dinner to present the collaborative activities and accomplishments of our growing partnership. Beginning in the fall of 2014, NC Interfaith Power & Light (NCIPL) began … [Read more...] about Growing a Partnership with Environmental Defense Fund
Inclusive Climate Adaptation and Resilience Building
The impacts of climate variability and change affect everyone, but they disproportionately affect vulnerable populations with the least resources to prepare and recover from the damage. Understanding where these concerns sit within a broad spectrum of stressors and challenges is … [Read more...] about Inclusive Climate Adaptation and Resilience Building
Pray for God’s Creation
On September 1 people around the world are coming together to pray for God’s creation, and to observe the Season of Creation between that day and October 4 – the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. NC Interfaith Power & Light is joining with the Global Catholic Climate Movement, … [Read more...] about Pray for God’s Creation
NCIPL’s Penny Hooper Named “Woman of the Year”
We are thrilled to share that Penny J. Hopper has been awarded “Woman of the Year” by the League of Women Voters of Carteret County, NC. Penny joined NC Interfaith Power & Light in 2008 as a Steering Committee Member. A year later, she became the Secretary and in 2014 was … [Read more...] about NCIPL’s Penny Hooper Named “Woman of the Year”
When it Rains it Pours in a Changing Climate
Extreme rainfall events like this week’s storms in Louisiana are expected to grow increasingly common in the coming years. Louisiana is always at risk of floods, naturally, but climate change is exacerbating that risk making heavy downpours stronger and more frequent. What's the … [Read more...] about When it Rains it Pours in a Changing Climate
EPA’s Clean Energy Incentive Program (CEIP) Supports Low-income Communities
Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a public hearing in Chicago to gather feedback on EPA’s proposed details for the Clean Energy Incentive Program (CEIP). Part of the Clean Power Plan, the CEIP is a “matching fund” program that helps states invest early … [Read more...] about EPA’s Clean Energy Incentive Program (CEIP) Supports Low-income Communities
Summer Is a Great Time to Be emPOWERed
Energy usage is soaring in NC as we all try to stay cool during the long days of heat and humidity this summer. It’s a great time to highlight an opportunity for your congregation to work with NC Interfaith Power & Light’s emPOWERerd program. NCIPL is currently working to … [Read more...] about Summer Is a Great Time to Be emPOWERed
African Methodist Episcopal Church Adopts Climate Change Resolution
By Ryan J. Smith, Blessed Tomorrow The African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest independent Protestant denomination founded by Black people in the world and Blessed Tomorrow's partner organization, has passed a Climate Change Resolution. During the 50th quadrennial AME … [Read more...] about African Methodist Episcopal Church Adopts Climate Change Resolution
Light Up: Reflections on the Summer Solstice
Like most days, I start the day by scanning email on my phone before I even get out of bed. Today, I was delighted to find that my friend, Hope Horton had shared her summer solstice reflections: “The Summer Solstice reveals the sun in all her glory in the northern hemisphere. … [Read more...] about Light Up: Reflections on the Summer Solstice
2016 Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day
On May 11, NCIPL hosted the Second Annual Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day. Members of faith communities from across the state met with representatives of the NC General Assembly to hear their vision for North Carolina's energy future and to express our support for new … [Read more...] about 2016 Faith Voices for Clean Energy Advocacy Day
Earth Day 2016
On this Earth Day 2016, let us celebrate that the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has left out the mid-Atlantic region from its final draft proposal for new offshore oil leasing.This was due in no small part to the grassroots activism by coastal communities from … [Read more...] about Earth Day 2016
NCIPL Joins National Call to Support Green Climate Fund
This week, NC Interfaith Power & Light joined 120 religious traditions and organizations across the nation representing tens of millions of Americans – including the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the National Council of Churches, and … [Read more...] about NCIPL Joins National Call to Support Green Climate Fund
NCIPL Hosts Katharine Hayhoe, World-Renowned Climate Scientist
NCIPL is hosting Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, world-renowned climate scientist and educator with a deep faith in God, the first week of April 2016. Go here for a complete list of the wonderful events planned with Dr. Hayhoe in Charlotte, Asheville, Greensboro, Durham, and … [Read more...] about NCIPL Hosts Katharine Hayhoe, World-Renowned Climate Scientist
Obama Withdraws Plan for Atlantic Coast Offshore Drilling
No drilling off North Carolina's coast... It's time to celebrate! NCIPL recently presented a statement opposing offshore oil drilling unanimously approved by the NC Council of Churches Governing Board. As a faith-based organization, we are called by God to preserve and … [Read more...] about Obama Withdraws Plan for Atlantic Coast Offshore Drilling
Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday
Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Love One Another: Reflections on Race, Power, and Privilege” Fifth Sunday in Lent —John 12:1-8 Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave … [Read more...] about Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday
The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change
Infographic by Tracy Loeffelholz Dunn / The Nation. Shutterstock images from Lorelyn Medina, Agusto Cabral The Clean Power Plan, and transitioning to a clean energy economy more broadly, are creating immense opportunities for community engagement in helping shape our states’ … [Read more...] about The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change
NCCC Policy Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling
The following was adopted by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches at their meeting on March 1. Go here to download the text. As people of faith, we proclaim our belief that our world is God’s creation, that God sees it as good, and that it is ours to … [Read more...] about NCCC Policy Statement Opposing Offshore Drilling
The State of Our Union and Climate Justice
Were you watching? This week President Obama gave his final State of the Union speech. He touted the success of the Paris conference in bringing 195 countries together to agree to curb global warming pollution. He rebuffed those who deny climate change and called for a spirit of … [Read more...] about The State of Our Union and Climate Justice
Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care
The world has witnessed a breakthrough with the release of the proposed final text of the Paris Agreement at COP 21. All participating countries have acknowledged that climate change is a common concern of humankind requiring immediate action. The Rev. Sally Bingham, IPL … [Read more...] about Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care
United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey
On November 6, the latest photovoltaic array on a North Carolina house of worship went online. The 84.76 kW, 326-panel system will generate 60% of the annual electricity needs at United Church of Chapel Hill (UCCH) and reduce the church’s overall carbon footprint by a minimum of … [Read more...] about United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey
Advent Guide on Refugees — First Sunday
Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches Jesus said, "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will … [Read more...] about Advent Guide on Refugees — First Sunday
Pope Francis in the US
For faith-based environmental activists, Pope Francis’s visit to the United States had a major effect even before he set foot on American soil. Now they hope his trip’s influence on their cause will reverberate long after he’s gone. The Pope’s visit to America took place just … [Read more...] about Pope Francis in the US
Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended
NC Interfaith Power & Light Director Susannah Tuttle delivered this statement at a press conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill on August 25. Every faith tradition mandates care of creation and the moral call to address the issues and impacts of our changing … [Read more...] about Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended
Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
“I wish to inform you that I have decided to institute in the Catholic Church the ‘World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ which, beginning this year, is to be celebrated on September 1st,” Pope Francis said in a letter released by the Vatican. The Pope said he had been … [Read more...] about Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral
New federal safeguards to reduce carbon emissions from existing power plants are necessary not just because they help the environment, but because they are the right and moral thing to do, North Carolina faith leaders say. NC Interfaith Power & Light supports the Clean … [Read more...] about Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral
An Encyclical for Summer Reading
Summertime has always been considered the best season for reading and this year we are blessed with what arguably could be considered some of the best reading material ever written! The Vatican has officially released the encyclical: Laudato Si' of the Holy Father Francis On … [Read more...] about An Encyclical for Summer Reading
The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple
The excitement is building: for the first time in history, the Pope is issuing an encyclical on the environment… but wait, why is this important? First, the Pope presides over the largest religious body with a single human leader: Catholicism. He is influential. Second, the … [Read more...] about The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple
NCIPL Invitation — Join the National Preach-In on Global Warming
This may be the biggest Preach-In yet, and you don’t want to miss it! More than 3,000 faith communities all over the US may preach or hold educational events on Valentine’s Day weekend. What a wonderful Valentine for the planet. The message will be climate justice and loving … [Read more...] about NCIPL Invitation — Join the National Preach-In on Global Warming
Healthy Eating for You and the Planet
Many of us kick off the new year committed to healthier eating. In his words below, NCIPL Steering Committee Chair Carl Sigel suggests ways we can be better not just to ourselves but also to our planet: At present, about one-third of the planet’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions … [Read more...] about Healthy Eating for You and the Planet
Climate Change and the New NC DENR Chief
More than 97 percent of the world’s climate scientists believe we humans are changing our climate for the worse. (That scientific consensus is as strong as the one that finds smoking causes cancer.) By burning fossil fuel in power plants, trucks and cars, by releasing methane gas … [Read more...] about Climate Change and the New NC DENR Chief
Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy
This week, representatives from 17 religious organizations met with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy to deliver more than 10,000 public comments and highlight the support of the faith community on rules to address carbon pollution from power … [Read more...] about Religious Leaders Meet with EPA Administrator McCarthy
Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries
This week, President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping – leaders of the world’s two biggest polluters – announced a “historic agreement.” Each country committed to reducing its nation’s carbon emissions: The US will reduce emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2025, … [Read more...] about Environmental Responsibility Knows No Boundaries
Hope for Our Future: The EPA Clean Power Plan
More than 40% of carbon pollution comes from power plants. Yet incredibly, there are currently no limits on greenhouse gas emissions from these plants. But now, the EPA has proposed first-ever standards for carbon pollution from the nation’s existing power plants. This proposal … [Read more...] about Hope for Our Future: The EPA Clean Power Plan
Reflections from the People’s Climate March
Many Interfaith Power & Light folks, from NC and all over the country, took to the streets of New York City this past weekend for the People's Climate March. It was an exhilarating time, and we left feeling more inspired and connected. Estimates are that more than 400,000 … [Read more...] about Reflections from the People’s Climate March
Connect and Share with Others in Planning for the People’s Climate March in September!
The People’s Climate March is bringing together people with the urgency and power needed to address the climate crisis. Read more here. It is happening in New York and simultaneously in locales around the world. Major organizations such as 350.org are arranging a climate tour … [Read more...] about Connect and Share with Others in Planning for the People’s Climate March in September!
Raising the Faith Voice Regarding Climate Change Now
People of faith are coming together in more and more impactful ways to help create the future that we want with clean air, clean water, clean energy, and with greater equity for all our children and the children of all species. An opportunity is rising now that will culminate … [Read more...] about Raising the Faith Voice Regarding Climate Change Now
The Earth and Its Fullness: NC Public Citizens’ Hearing
We wanted to share Rev. Richard Eden’s words of welcome from the hearing hosted by United Church of Chapel Hill: “First, welcome to United Church of Chapel Hill and the NC’s Public Citizen’s Hearing on EPA’s Clean Power Plants Rules. We are glad we could assist your hosts this … [Read more...] about The Earth and Its Fullness: NC Public Citizens’ Hearing
Lake Chatuge GreenFaith Team to Launch Energy Saving Campaign
The Lake Chatuge GreenFaith Team, a group of environmentally concerned churches from Northern Georgia and Western North Carolina will be publishing environmental tips in local papers and radio outlets as well as church bulletins to show how simple energy-saving practices can … [Read more...] about Lake Chatuge GreenFaith Team to Launch Energy Saving Campaign
National Day of Action #PutSolarOnIt
On June 21, the longest day of the year, Interfaith Power & Light is joining a coalition of groups to come together for a National Day of Action to show support for switching to clean energy, fighting climate change, and bringing solar power to communities all across the … [Read more...] about National Day of Action #PutSolarOnIt
EPA Takes Moral Action to Cut Carbon Pollution from Power Plants
On June 2, the EPA acted on our moral obligation to address unlimited carbon pollution coming from the nation’s power plants, the single largest source of global warming pollution in the country. The new standards will help usher in clean energy solutions like improved … [Read more...] about EPA Takes Moral Action to Cut Carbon Pollution from Power Plants
We Drew a Line in the Sand
On Saturday, May 17, at noon, about 30 people gathered at the Atlantic Beach/Fort Macon Swimming Beach for the nation-wide “Hands Across the Sand Demonstration” to promote clean energy and protest offshore oil drilling. The following organizations were represented: NC Interfaith … [Read more...] about We Drew a Line in the Sand
A Chance to Enjoy God’s Creation
Last week Rev. Sally Bingham, founder of Interfaith Power & Light, simply asked: “Do you remember what it was like to be a child and play in the great outdoors?” This question came in her response to the release of the first comprehensive report produced by the … [Read more...] about A Chance to Enjoy God’s Creation
Fifth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Creation
In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and brothers of low-income. We hope you and your family will find cause for reflection and inspiration for action as … [Read more...] about Fifth Sunday in Lent: Poverty & Creation
Climate Activists Must Heed the Lessons of North Carolina
Joe Wainio begins his wonderful article on TruthOut, Climate change activists should look to North Carolina for lessons on how to build a broad and diverse movement powerful enough to challenge the corrupt status quo on several fronts. Single-issue organizing won’t do. To make … [Read more...] about Climate Activists Must Heed the Lessons of North Carolina
The Common Heritage of This State by Susannah Tuttle – Voices of Moral Mondays
The NC Council of Churches is proud to publish a brand new e-book collection of testimonies from Moral Mondays. With 32 short vignettes from North Carolinians across the state, Voices of Moral Mondays tells the story of everyday folks being motivated to speak out on account of … [Read more...] about The Common Heritage of This State by Susannah Tuttle – Voices of Moral Mondays
Peppers Picked in Prayer
Climate Change Is Real… In Many Ways… In Different Places… At The Same Time… As We All Exist. Today I picked these peppers due to early freezing temperatures in North Carolina. Although each pepper could’ve lived longer on the vine if the weather wasn’t so … [Read more...] about Peppers Picked in Prayer
Do Your Legislators Represent You or Not?
The 2013 legislative session exhibited an anti-regulatory agenda, endangering North Carolina’s natural beauty and our quality of life, including our health. Numerous bills were introduced that weakened pollution control, sought to rush through fracking, underfunded many of the … [Read more...] about Do Your Legislators Represent You or Not?
A Special Energy Audit
United Church of Christ of Chapel Hill (UCC-CH) is my home church. My parents are committed members and, as a returning college grad, I feel excited about being part of this faith community. Going through an energy audit with my church pastor to learn about the church’s efforts … [Read more...] about A Special Energy Audit
Congregations and Coal: Faith and the Riverbend Coal Plant
I travelled to the River Bend Coal Power Plant just outside of Charlotte to attend a press conference for the release of “Closing the Floodgates: How the Coal Industry is Poisoning our Water and How We can Stop It”. This extensive report, written as a collaboration between the … [Read more...] about Congregations and Coal: Faith and the Riverbend Coal Plant
Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy
Most North Carolinians oppose fracking, favor clean energy and think current regulations are sufficient or should be stronger. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) released the North Carolina poll results on July 15, 2013. “From the mountains to the beaches, it’s clear … [Read more...] about Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy
In the Shadows of Riverbend
Across the street, a small, unassuming, idyllic Catholic church faces the Duke Power Riverbend Coal Plant. The plant is at the center of litigation and outrage in response to consistent pollution and lack of effective coal ash pond treatment. For a new intern at NCIPL, the … [Read more...] about In the Shadows of Riverbend
Clergy Letter on Keystone Published in Politico
The following letter was sent to NC House members’ Legislative Directors and Energy and Environmental Legislative Assistants: I wanted to be sure that you saw this letter, published as a full page ad in Politico, and signed by over 150 clergy from diverse faith traditions and … [Read more...] about Clergy Letter on Keystone Published in Politico
Get Your Congregation on the Creation Care Map
If you haven’t seen it yet, check out NCIPL’s success story map. The stories you read are diverse in faith, demographics, geography, themes, and approaches. Each congregation responds to climate change in different ways -- growing food for parishioners, growing food for … [Read more...] about Get Your Congregation on the Creation Care Map
NCIPL Director and Volunteer on “Midday Interview” WHQR Radio Show
Volunteer Ed Ablard and I discussed the work and mission of NCIPL, as well as the wonderful evening Ed organized at his church, St. Paul’s Episcopal. Thank you so much to Ed for arranging this interview; it was a pleasure to be with you and all of our coastal allies this … [Read more...] about NCIPL Director and Volunteer on “Midday Interview” WHQR Radio Show
NCUC Challenges Duke Energy
The North Carolina Utilities Commission issued an order on Friday challenging Duke Energy to back up its Integrated Resource Plan – its long-term business plan – with more facts. The order questioned whether Duke is overestimating the amount of electricity it must generate and … [Read more...] about NCUC Challenges Duke Energy
Preparing the Way: Caring for Creation – A Lenten “Carbon Fast”
From Chapter 2 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We're offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Psalm 103: 8-14 (NAB) Merciful and gracious is the Lord, … [Read more...] about Preparing the Way: Caring for Creation – A Lenten “Carbon Fast”
Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill
Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation … [Read more...] about Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill
Springtime on Eaarth
Spring is a favorite time for all of us who love to be in the garden. I cherish this season and plan my weeks so that I can begin and end each day with sacred moments outside. Spring is a time to dig in the earth, to plant seeds and to cultivate flowers. It’s a time of renewal … [Read more...] about Springtime on Eaarth
Episcopal Diocese of NC: Take Action on Climate Change
On January 21, during the 196th Annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, the delegation resolved to receive with thanks the “Teaching of the House of Bishops on Environment” issued from their meeting in Quito, Ecuador in September 2011. The delegation … [Read more...] about Episcopal Diocese of NC: Take Action on Climate Change