Frequently Asked Questions
Ngā Pātai Auau
Why bother? Why care for creation?
Because God does! Through Christ God creates, sustains, and restores creation.
That’s about God. Why does it involve us?
Humans are made in God’s image and commissioned to exercise God’s care for the Earth.
What does this have to do with the gospel / Good News about Jesus?
Christ is the true image of God and saves us by renewing God’s image in us. The care of creation becomes our primary witness and worship here.
Why does it need to involve our churches?
Eco Churches exist to be signs that God loves the world, and in Christ is working to see it healed. Eco Churches are signs of gospel hope, they can be models of a restored creation, they are places where we celebrate this story. Eco Churches value the gift of our creation and our partnership with everything else in reflecting the glory of God. Eco Churches want to connect the Good News of Jesus to the pressing environmental issues of our day. Eco Churches want to be places where we can model ways of living that give hope.
Isn’t this just more work?
Christians have always connected the good news of Jesus to the issues of the world in which they live. How are we to live here? Is there is any hope for the Earth? These are the critical questions of our day and Eco-churches are about making those connections and telling this Good News.
Does it cost anything to register as an Eco Church?
No, registration as an Eco Church is free. But we do ask you and/or your church to consider supporting the project and our work in Aotearoa New Zealand. Your church is welcome to fundraise for the Eco Church project or take up an annual special offering towards the Eco Church cause.
What does registration as an Eco Church mean?
Registration is a statement of intent or declaration of commitment that your church is concerned about the environment and wants to do something about it in the future.
Do we have to complete the Eco Church Action Planner before registering as an Eco Church?
No, the Eco Church Action Planner worksheet is just one of the tools that you use on your Eco Church journey. You can register any time after you have approval from your church decision-making body.
Do we have to implement lots of creation care initiatives before registering as an Eco Church?
No, being an Eco Church is a journey and an ongoing process.
Is there currently a certification pathway or award system for Eco Church NZ?
No, our current strategy is focused on supporting churches to take action through resources and tools.