Ecologist!

As of late I have been reading more of Bishop Ware's wonderful work "The Orthodox Church' in it he quotes Fr. Amphilochios who Bishop Ware remembers as having ardent compassion and gentleness. It is told us that one of his spiritual children is said to have remarked 'He spoke the language of love'. He is remembered as being an ecologist long before this became popular! 'Whoever does not love trees, does not love Christ' and if imposing penance on the locals who asked him for forgiveness he would tell them to plant trees! Being a good steward is important. Jesus told us a parable that if someone cannot be trusted with simple small things how can he be trusted with grand things? For many Christians in America the topic of Creation Care has been a neglected concern. Pastors, Denominations, and Laity rarely find themselves concerned with the Earth's well being. There are however signs  that Christianity is awaking, and no longer neglecting the Earth God created. Archbishop Williams in his New Years address to the Communion compared our disregard for appreciation and willingness to dispose of 'yesterdays' items for the new 'this year' model has created a materialistic attitude that may effect our relationships, including the most important relationship that with God. There is a new Green Bible made of mostly recycled material in the NRSV version. I think we as Christians need to the way to protect and help honor the wonderful Creation God has given us!