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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Westwood explores theology, God's creation, and current ecological concerns. When we ask, "What is distinctive about the church's response?" and "How does faith impact the environment?" ...it is with ears of faith, we listen.
We are called to respond in ways that embody God's love for all of creation and the resurrection, even through unsettling climate change. As we lament the state of our relationship with creation, we lean into the proclamation: "In hope we are saved."
WESTWOOD'S "GREEN TEAM"
The Westwood Environmental Sustainability Team is a group of members leading the way for our community to live out this core value.
The team is on a mission to help our congregation and the broader community live "greener" and eco-friendly lives. Small changes by individuals can lead to bigger changes for the thriving of our neighbors and the world God loves.
Quarterly Eco-Newsletter, "A Greener Westwood, A Greener World"
The "Green Team" premiered a new quarterly newsletter (subscribe now)!
Read recent editions below:
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Mark Your Calendars:
Earth Day Celebration, April 22
You are invited to Westwood’s Earth Day Celebration during our Community Meal on Wednesday, April 22, from 5–6:30 p.m. Outdoor Worship will follow it at 6:30 p.m. (weather permitting) in honor of Earth Day, featuring a Creation-focused liturgy. At the celebration, enjoy a delicious meal, learn recycling tips, and explore earth-friendly booths. We hope you’ll join us for this evening of community, fellowship, and Creation Care!
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BUCKTHORN REMOVAL
Members of Westwood's community gathered for a weekend to begin removing invasive Buckthorn along the lakeshore and trail. While these efforts create noticeable change, the removal is only one step toward long-term control and mitigating invasive species.
CLIMATE JUSTICE CONGREGATION
In 2024, Westwood Lutheran Church was certified as one of 35 congregations and spiritual communities across Minnesota that are leading the way in shifting the climate crisis from a story of fear to one of hope. Learn more about the Climate Justice Congregation Program (CJC).
We are grateful to be recognized by Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light.
Westwood hopes to be a role model and resource for other congregations, and galvanize more people of faith, spirituality, and consciousness to respond to climate change and heal our relationship with the earth.
RESOURCES (misc.)
Below are resources for Xcel Energy, CenterPoint Energy, the City of St. Louis Park, and Electrify Everything Minnesota. Many energy companies, cities, and states have energy-efficient rebate programs.
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For local residents, the City of St. Louis Park Sustainability webpage is a resource and covers FAQs.
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Xcel Energy provides residential tips for saving energy and available rebates.
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CenterPoint Energy provides efficiency programs and rebates for Minnesota.
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Make your home climate-friendly and more comfortable through electrification.
If you're unsure where to start, visit Electrify Everything Minnesota.
Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light shared a resource guide and a copy of a presentation for Westwood.
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A resource guide with QR codes for additional organizations.
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PDF copy of Buff Grace's excellent presentation.