The church has a powerful opportunity to lead by example when it comes to caring for creation. Around the world, congregations are discovering practical ways to reduce their environmental impact while investing in the wellbeing of the natural world. Through World Renew’s Climate Witness Project, churches have explored how creation care can be woven into everyday decisions about buildings, land, and long-term stewardship.

Caring for Creation as a Way of Doing Church

One example comes from Church of the Servant in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For this congregation, stewardship of their property has become an integral part of what it means to “do church.” Their commitment to creation care is reflected in both their energy use and their landscaping choices.

When it came to landscaping, the church intentionally selected plants native to their region. These choices reduce water use, protect local waterways, and create safe nesting and feeding spaces for birds and insects. Indoors and out, the church has also taken steps to reduce energy consumption by installing energy-efficient lighting and a white thermal plastic roof designed to reflect heat.

Witness Through Action

Doug Koetje, a member of the church’s Creation Care team, explained why these changes mattered: “For us, this was really important because there are so many people looking at the church and saying, ‘Why don’t you people get it?’” Pastor Andrew Mead also connects this work directly to Christian responsibility. “Part of that love and care,” he says, “means being engaged on climate change.”

These practical investments have resulted in meaningful impact. Church of the Servant has reduced its energy use by more than 95,000 kWh and saved approximately $25,000 in energy costs—resources that can now be redirected toward ministry and mission.

Their story is a reminder that faithful stewardship can be both a public witness and a tangible expression of care for vulnerable people and ecosystems alike.