Green Sanctuary Action Committee

The Green Sanctuary Action Committee was formed in 2006 by UUFSD members with a passion for the 7th UU principle: Respect for the interdependent web of all existence, of which we are a part.

The Green Sanctuary Program is part of the Unitarian-Universalist Ministry for Earth (UUMFE) http://uuministryforearth.org/cgi/news.cgi, which provides support for UU congregations seeking certification as Green Sanctuaries.  The program requires Green Sanctuary (GS) committees to inspire their congregations to conduct educational and environmental justice projects, and to perform an environmental audit leading to improved energy and resource use.

The ultimate goal of the GS program is for UUs to internalize the meaning of the 7th principle so that energy conservation and sustainable practices are incorporated into every action taken by their congregations as a whole and as individuals.

The UUFSD Green Sanctuary Action committee’s charter states:

• We believe it is our responsibility to do our part to serve as good stewards of the Earth.
• We respect and honor the uniqueness of the property where our Fellowship meets, and we affirm our gratitude for the opportunity to seek spiritual meaning together in these beautiful natural surroundings.
• We believe that stewardship of the Earth, and particularly of the Green Sanctuary created by our Fellowship, will remain an ongoing responsibility.
• We will undertake activities together that embody the 7th Principle, including the following:
  • Understanding and addressing our impacts on the Earth as a Fellowship and individually, through education and auditing;
  • Providing support for members of the Fellowship in their efforts to live more simply and in harmony with nature; and
  • Preserving and enhancing the UUFSD property.

The Green Sanctuary Action Committee invites you to join.

• Meetings are held once a month, usually with a potluck dinner.
• Opportunities to get involved in projects that will lead to GS certification include:
• Working to use our resources more wisely in the office, kitchen, and grounds.
• Working to improve the grounds, using native plants and limiting water use.
• Composting for eventual organic gardening.
• Environmental justice. An example of an environmental injustice is farm workers who are exposed to pesticides. Buying organic produce is good for you, good for the Earth, and good for the farm workers.
• Religious Education programs for children and adults.
• Sunday services, such as Earth Sunday.