Cal DeWitt and Majora Carter — Discovering Where We Live: Reimagining Environmentalism

Creation Care

The Creation Care Movement within evangelical circles emphasizes environmental stewardship as a reflection of faith. Cal DeWitt explains how this movement has redefined the relationship between humans and the environment, moving away from seeing it as separate from us. He notes that evangelical Christianity's non-hierarchical nature allows for swift adaptation to new understandings, such as the science of climate change 1. At Boise Vineyard, Pastor Tri Robinson's sermon on creation care received a standing ovation, highlighting the congregation's readiness to embrace environmental action 2.

Evangelicals are very used to the idea of taking about faces, which is really what conversion is about.

--- Cal DeWitt

This movement is gaining momentum as more congregations recognize the biblical mandate to care for creation.

   

Stewardship

Practical applications of faith-inspired environmental stewardship are exemplified by Cal DeWitt's sustainable living practices in Dunn, Wisconsin. He describes his lawn as a vibrant ecosystem, maintained through what he calls "ecological lawn mowing," which fosters biodiversity without pesticides 3. DeWitt's leadership in his community has led to the preservation of land for agriculture, wetlands, and prairie restoration, creating a sustainable community model 4.

We sacrifice congestion, busyness, frantic behavior, frequent trips to the mall. That's what we sacrifice. What we gain is peace, wholesomeness, less TV watching, more hikes.

--- Cal DeWitt

This approach not only enhances local biodiversity but also enriches the community's quality of life.