Members of Beacon Hill Baptist Church in Boston, Mass., are striving to be green–when it comes to the environment, that is. And they're doing it with simple gestures like bringing their own coffee mugs to church, instead of using disposable cups.
David Draper, the pastor of the 20-person congregation, wants his church to be a model of good stewardship for larger congregations. His church demonstrates that even simple things count when it comes to protecting the environment. And Baptists who enjoy and utilize nature should think about preserving it, he said.
Draper suggested that larger churches establish environmental committees to determine how the church can become more earth-friendly and offer members updates on ecological news. On a broader scale, Draper said, large organizations like CBF should offer recycling bins for pop bottles or food cartons at conventions and other large gatherings.
At Beacon Hill, members began church-wide recycling efforts about five years ago. The church doesn't receive cash benefits from recycling. Instead, members leave items with redeemable deposits outside for homeless people to collect.
Members of Beacon Hill are considering bringing their own plates and utensils for potluck meals. It's barely less convenient than using disposable items, and Christians must choose to be ecologically responsible just as they choose to do good, Draper said.
Associated Baptist Press