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.
What does registration as an Eco Church mean?
Registering as an Eco Church means becoming part of a nationwide movement of churches who are committed to working towards integrating creation care into every aspect of what it means to do and be the Church. It is a statement of intent - a declaration that your church community is concerned about the environment and wants to do something about it. It is a meaningful first step in responding to God’s call to care for creation.
Do we have to complete the Eco Church Action Planner before registering as an Eco Church?
No, the Eco Church Action Planner 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 need to have formed an Eco Church team before registering as an Eco Church?
No, this can be done later. We suggest eventually forming a team as it means there is a collective energy and momentum behind the eco church kaupapa. People with different skills and passion can share the load, pray together, support each other, and explore different areas together.
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. Our Eco Church Regional Coordinators can help support your church with the next steps.
Do we need to know what initiatives we plan to do as an Eco Church before registering as an Eco Church?
No, being an Eco Church is a journey and an ongoing process. Our Eco Church Regional Coordinators can help support your church with the next steps.
We don't have anyone volunteering to be the Eco Church kaihāpai / advocate for our church!
The Eco Church kaihāpai / advocate is the main contact at your church for us to get in touch with. So it can be your church administrator or church leader - anyone who is able to help share events and resources with the rest of your church.
Why is there a recommended annual contribution to join Eco Church?
The Eco Church network is growing rapidly, and this contribution helps us sustainably resource churches with workshops, support, events, and tools.
What if my church can’t afford the annual contribution?
No problem! Churches can opt out of contributing that year by emailing us—no questions asked.
Can we give less than the recommended annual contribution?
Yes! We welcome any contribution your church can afford. You will still be able to access support from the Eco Church team.
Can we give more than the recommended annual contribution?
Yes! Additional donations or koha are welcome and help support other churches in the network.
What if my church decides to give to A Rocha regularly as part of its mission giving?
We would be delighted to receive your church's regular financial support. If this is the case for your church, we will not send your church an annual contribution invoice.
Is there currently a certification pathway or award system for Eco Church Aotearoa?
No, our current strategy is focused on supporting churches to take action through resources and tools, and to share stories of impact from churches to encourage and inspire action.