Earth Day is April 22nd of this year and for many people, it’s a reminder to stop and take a moment to consider our planet. Here in Arizona, we face many challenges within our environment every day. From water shortages to rising temperatures and environmental destruction due to urbanization, one day a year just isn’t enough. Caring for creation is a year-round call and we must work together to heal the damage that has already been done and prevent future harm from occurring.
This year, the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona is recognizing Earth Day and our call to care for God’s creation in many ways. In an effort to raise awareness of the impact of climate change on future generations, on Saturday, April 23rd at 5 pm, the diocesan Creation Care ministry will be hosting a free screening of the film Youth v Gov via Zoom.
This inspiring story of youth activism documents 21 activists from across the nation as they file a groundbreaking lawsuit against the United States. The case reveals evidence that the government has endangered their constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property by acting over six decades to create the climate crisis. Youth v Gov, an award-winning film, shows the power of young people to lead.
This diocesan screening is intended to provide an opportunity to enjoy this film to those who are unable to see the film at their own church or another church in the diocese that is hosting a screening.
Join us for the film and a discussion afterward led by the Rev. Pam Hyde, Canon for Creation Care, and members of the diocesan Creation Care Council, as we explore the moral right of future generations to a livable climate, our responsibility to care for creation, and the leadership that today’s youth can provide in advocating for our future. This event is open to everyone of all ages.
To Register for this online event, CLICK HERE.
Youth Gatherings on Earth Day
In addition to the diocesan screening, the Children and Youth Ministry will be hosting two in-person Youth Gatherings on Friday, April 22nd, that will screen the film and discuss safeguarding a livable future.
Other Creation Care Events
Along with the diocesan screenings, congregations around Arizona are taking action to care for God’s creation. St. Michael’s and All Angels Episcopal Church in Tucson, AZ, is hosting a Climate Change Forum on Saturday, April 30th, from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
Climate-Change Forum V – Chicken coming home to roost! is a continuation of “A Religious Response to Climate Change” and focuses on the following:
- Have decades of prophecy based on solid multi-faceted scientific research started to affect us?
- What can we expect if the trend continues unabated?
- What has religion to do with these questions?
Br. David Hedges+, Rector of St. Michael and All Angels Parish, and member of the diocesan Creation Care Council will lead an opening prayer followed by a Scientific presentation by Dr. Yang Song, Assistant Professor, Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences, UA on
Climate Resilience of Our Energy, Food, and Ecosystem
Following Dr. Yang Song, Dr. Christopher Castro, Professor and Associate Department Head, Hydrology & Atmospheric Sciences, UA will discuss the climate resilience of our energy, food, and ecosystem as well as the fate of our water supply in the southwest desert.
When: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM on Saturday, 30 April 2022
Where: Smith Parish Center
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 602 N. Wilmot Rd. (at 5th St.), Tucson, AZ
Registration: 9:00 AM with a voluntary donation. Light refreshment will be provided.
RSVP: Please call the parish office at (520) 886-7292 or email church@stmichael.net for your reservation by 2:30 PM on Monday, 25 April 2022. There may be a cap due to COVID condition. Thank you!Coordinators: Ke Chiang (John) Hsieh, parishioner & Physics Professor Emeritus, UA hsieh@dakotacom.net with the Rev. Dr. John Leech, member of the diocesan Creation Care Council, john.leech@yahoo.com
Hosted by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, The Rev. Canon David Benedict Hedges, BSG, Rector.
Get Involved
While these springtime events remind us of our responsibility to care for God’s creation, it is not exclusive to anyone at any time. If you feel the call to get involved, there are no limitations to how you can help. If you need guidance on where to start, visit the Creation Care pages of our website for resources and information. You can also contact The Rev. Pam Hyde, Canon for Creation Care, at pam@azdiocese.org with questions.