Who We Are » Earth Care Congregations

Responsible stewardship of God’s Creation is central concern of the PC(USA). The PC(USA) developed the Earth Care Congregations program for congregations to show their dedication to earth care and to exchange ideas for “greening” congregations. Over the last few years, Frederick Presbyterian Church has examined various activities and earned status as an Earth Care Congregation in 2024.

To become an Earth Care Congregation, FPC, though the Compassion, Peace and Justice Committee, formed an Earth Care Team (ECT) made up of David Cassatt (lead), Catherine Thompson, and Angelyn Forbes-Freeze. The PC(USA) provides a list of activities focusing on four areas: worship, education, facilities, and outreach, and the ECT met with staff and Session Chairs to collect information about what activities we were already engaged in.

For worship, our outdoor worship services, our move to glass communion cups, and even our prayer garden by Heritage Hall speak to our commitment to sustainability and enjoyment of the outdoors.

Learning about God’s Creation and sustainability is an important part of our educational efforts. Our VBS was about rebuilding and we led a class about sustainability, with a recycling and composting activity for the young people. We also kept the Congregation abreast of our activities.

For FPC’s facilities, we have a challenge of maintaining a sanctuary that is almost 200 years old, as well as various additions (including a modern Heritage Hall) over the years. As heating and cooling units were installed or replaced, high-efficiency models were installed. Bathroom renovations included fixtures with reduced water use and lights that automatically shut off. Sanctuary lighting was switched to LED, and window renovations reduced energy loss.

FPC has always had connections with our community, and our outreach programs reflected this. We provide space for AA and NA and we support a community garden. We have also started working with the local Multifaith Alliance of Climate Stewards, and other groups committed to caring for God’s Creation.

But certification isn’t a one-time event. We are fortunate that the PC(USA) puts an emphasis on maintaining certifications and we will continue our efforts and apply for recertification in 2025.

Useful Links:
Earth Care Congregation program PC(USA)
Baltimore Presbytery earth care web page
Multifaith Alliance of Climate Stewards
Interfaith Power & Light
Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake