2023 Faith Community Award
Peace Lutheran Church in Alexandria has six guiding principles, one of which is “we promote love and justice for all of God’s creation.” Peace has taken many steps to curb energy use: programmable thermostats, LED lights, automatic light switches, upgrading dishwashers, planting native trees, turning much of the property into gardens, installing an energy-efficient HVAC system, encouraging staff to work from home when possible (cutting their commute), and fully funding a 60 KW, rooftop, solar panel installation. Peace has participated in environmental advocacy. A highlight happened in August 2021: representatives from Interfaith Power and Light and a handful of Peace members met with a member of Senator Warner’s staff to talk about solar panels, environmental justice, gardens and clean water, and the importance of keeping climate in the forefront of the infrastructure bill. Peace supports its Pastor in serving on the FACS board and to lead denominational climate efforts. The Pastor regularly infuses her sermons with the importance of creation care and acting on climate. Peace has hosted many educational events, including an eco-display where people brought their favorite eco-friendly products. Peace’s Sunday School is nearly zero-waste; no foam in our kids’ crafts! Peace also includes FACS in its prayers and monthly special offerings.