Network FAQ

What is the Green Awakening Network?

This is a group of congregations of the United Church of Canada in the City of Toronto. We have come together to share ideas and experiences, in partnership with others, on how to respond to the challenge of climate change and how to reduce our "carbon footprint." At this time our partners are Greening Sacred Spaces and the Centre for Church Development Leadership.

As a "network", this is not a formal organization and it is intended to act more like a faith-based resource on climate change among UCC congregations. We hope that it will be an inspiration and a catalyst for action for the wider community in which we are located.

The Green Awakening project also provides a focused and action-oriented opportunity for networking among congregations interested in "eco-justice".

The new network is excited to announce that it is the recipient of one of the first grants from the City of Toronto’s "Live Green: Toronto Community Investment Program".

What is its purpose?

The Green Awakening Network's chief goals are to:

• develop a strong awareness of the imperative to act in response to the challenge to reduce greenhouse gases;
• develop a preparedness within our communities for the challenges that they face as a result of climate change;
• implement programs of action in partnership with community groups in the surrounding neighbourhoods.

What are the qualifications for being in the Green Awakening Network?

Participation in the Green Awakening Network is encouraged for all congregations, large and small. "Membership" in the network occurs when a congregation has completed one, or more, of the following initiatives:

• presented a workshop on "greening" homes / church buildings
• hosted a "green" event – such as an "Eco-Fair" for the community
• conducted an energy audit of the church building(s)
• formed a "green team" to educate themselves and take action to reduce greenhouse gasses
• installed "green" retrofits in a church building to reduce the carbon footprint of the congregation
• engaged 25 family units in calculating their carbon footprint

What is the Network doing?

The Green Awakening Network's Annual Report for 2010 - 2011 outlines our activities during the past year.

For more information on the Network's goals, recent activities, challenges and successes please read the Summer 2011 Report to Live Green Toronto.

Why are we doing this?

Our faith calls us to "live with respect in creation." In order to live out our Christian faith at this time of environmental crisis (according to a consensus among scientific personnel) we have formed this Network to work together for the greater common good. we are not alone and we need each other’s experiences and expertise in order that we can make the greatest possible positive change. We believe that God has called us to participate in life-giving acts for the earth, and all of life.

How do I become a part of this?

Contact Ron Ewart at the Centre for Church Development Leadership for additional information.
Download the Green Awakening Network 'Commitment to Action' Form.