God Loves Green

Fortnightly finds one church preaching the gospel of renewable energy.

At the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour in the town of Secaucus, N.J., purchasing renewable energy is more than just a consideration about the environment, or a dollars-and-cents issue. "The purchase of renewable electric energy is a spiritual and moral act. The religious community is showing creative responsibility in taking the initiative to widen the market for energy that will lead to cleaner, healthier air for our future children," states the Rev. Franklin E. Vilas, D.Min., on his Parish's Web site. And he should know, Rev. Vilas is the chairman of the Diocese's Environmental Commission and president of Partners for Environmental Quality Inc., a nonprofit interfaith coalition focused on earth stewardship and environmental justice. Furthermore, Rev. Vila says the push for green energy at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour started with organizations and movements like California's Episcopal Power and Light.

In March 2002, Episcopal Power and Light was named the winner of the Energy Globe Award 2002. The Energy Globe Awards is considered the most prestigious international prize for sustainable energy solutions. EP&L is one of many religious organizations-representing almost every faith across the country-that want consumers to see renewable energy in a different light.

In late November last year, the Evangelical Environmental Network received much attention when it asked the provocative question, "What would Jesus drive?" Taking its argument to the automotive industry, the group believes that Jesus would drive something fuel-efficient. In an ad campaign that aired in four states, the group says Christians have a moral imperative to preserve the environment by giving up their gas-guzzling SUVs, minivans and pickups. Below is a message on the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour Web site that greets parishioners and outlines the view of the church on green energy.

Articles found on this page are available to Internet subscribers only. For more information about obtaining a username and password, please call our Customer Service Department at 1-800-368-5001.