Green Faith

Our congregation is exploring a two-year certification program  through Green Faith.   Margaret Lapic and Michael Wright have agreed to co-chair a committee to apply to participate, with vestry approval.

Some information from the GreenFaith website:

The GreenFaith Certification Program helps religious institutions become environmental leaders.

“Before GreenFaith, our environmental efforts were like baking a cake from scratch through trial and error. When we joined the Certification Program, we were given the recipe book and the ingredients…GreenFaith is an essential partner.” Mark Niederman, Green Team Leader, Temple Beth Rishon,Wyckoff, NJ

Helping your house of worship grow through successful environmental efforts can be a challenge.
The GreenFaith Certification Program is a two-year congregational growth and environmental leadership program.

With their clergy and leaders’ endorsements, participating houses of worship form a Green Team and carry out:
• “Green” facility management
• Community outreach and publicity
• Environmental justice education and advocacy
• Sustainable consumption training for members
• Religious education for all ages
• Eco-themed worship
• Collaboration with multi-faith groups
• Affordable tuition fees range from $500 - $1,500 for the full two-year program

What is the Certification Program?
The Certification Program is a nationally-recognized two-year program. It provides houses of worship with a holistic, well-supported and structured program to ‘green’ their worship, education, facilities and outreach.

Why Should my House of Worship Participate?
The Certification Program is a powerful experience. It helps congregations:

• Grow spiritually – through outdoor, interfaith, inter-generational activities and religious teachings on the Earth.
• Attract new members, “grow” new leaders, involve their members.
• Accomplish more for the environment – by following proven processes and using outstanding materials.

Save money through energy conservation and green purchasing.
Invest in your Future — Money-Back Guarantee
The GreenFaith Certification Program is an investment in the future of your church, temple, or mosque. By addressing environmental concerns, you can attract and engage new members, grow spiritually, and save money. It’s a powerful combination. And, you’ll save more than your tuition payment during the program, or we’ll refund your fee.

What support does GreenFaith provide?
Since 1992, GreenFaith has helped faith communities become environmental leaders. We provide
Certification Program participants with:
• Coaching from a Mentor whose house of worship has successfully completed the program.
• A money-back guarantee. You’ll save more than your tuition payment, or we’ll refund your fee.
• User-friendly, web-based resources to help you meet each program requirement.
• Webinars to train your Green Team leaders; email and phone support from staff.
• Publicity and communications materials to reach your house of worship and wider community.

Watch this message from Bishop Greg Rickel encouraging St. Stephen's to explore Green Faith: