As part of our summer of creation, we’re encouraging everyone at Raleigh Mennonite to pick up one (or more!) new practice(s) to try for the summer. You might want to try one practice for a few weeks to try it out. Or you might try one practice for a month at a time. 

Whatever you do, we hope you’ll join us in discipleship that draw us into faithful relationship with God and God’s creation –

“Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the highest heavens, the earth and all that is in it”

Deut 10:14

Practices

• Reduce or eliminate meat from your diet. 
• Reduce or eliminate single use plastics.
• Commit to one day, week, or month changing your transportation use. (In a home with more than one vehicle, using only one vehicle for the week. You might also try public transportation, buses, or carpooling.)
• Use this summer to undergo a home energy efficiency project. That might be insulating doors and windows, installing solar panels or a heat pump, or buying energy efficient appliances. RMCers are on stand-by to help with these kinds of projects.
• Begin a compost pile to reduce food waste going to landfills.
• Commit to a period of “no-buy” or “second-hand buy.” During this time purchase items second hand or try buying nothing beyond necessities for a period of time.
• Commit to sending a letter, email, or call to one official each day urging bold action on climate change. You can learn about current legislation from Sunrise Movement and the NC Interfaith Power and Light. 
• Spend time in nature and help children connect to our natural world.
• Learn about our watershed, our local wildlife, and the resources we’re connected to in Raleigh. 
• Pray for human and non-human creatures, and give thanks for our world.

Want more ideas? Check out More With Less practices to try this summer.

Prayers for climate care practices

When I am frustrated
“God, you came to us in a human body and you lived a life of patience. Our world craves immediate satisfaction. May the inconvenience of my practice draw me close to Jesus and to the good creation you have given us. Amen.”

When I lose hope
“Good Creator, nothing in this world escapes your love and care even as human destruction and greed destroy the works of your hands. Help me to trust that you are working and willing wholeness for all creatures. In the face of devastation, teach me your faithfulness that I can rejoice in hope. Amen.”

When I am failing
“Holy Parent, you have embraced me in your love and nothing can separate me from you. There are times when I am overwhelmed and tired. In these moments, give me your strength but also your compassion to trust your redemption is complete. Give me rest to begin again tomorrow. Amen.” 

When I am grateful
“Creator and Sustainer, you have made the world full of good things. I rejoice in the abundant gift of this world and the opportunity to explore faithfulness in new ways. Amen.”