Shade Garden

This garden engages us to observe creation and remind us that it’s God’s desire for everyone to be well in mind, body, soul and spirit. Self care is not selfish, it is vital for nurturing yourself, your family, your loved ones and extended community.

Scripture & Prayer

At FUMC Westfield, we seek to love God and love everyone. We commit to follow Jesus in word and action. We care for our community and congregation by sowing seeds of grace, love, and joy.

On the seventh day—with the canvas of the cosmos completed—God paused from His labor and rested. Thus God blessed day seven and made it special—an open time for pause and restoration, a sacred zone of Sabbath keeping, because God rested from all the work He had done in creation that day. Genesis 2:2-3

Loving and caring God, who gives rest to the weary, rest my soul and guide me to meditate and spend time with You. Help me to accept that caring for creation begins with caring for myself as I am also one of your creations. Amen.


Love In Action

  • Find at least fifteen minutes a day in your schedule when you can sit still and shut off your devices.

  • Focus on what you can do to care for the planet rather than the whole of the problem which feels hopeless and can cause climate anxiety. Try planting some tomato plants or herbs in your garden or in a pot. You can also clean your toilet and sinks with lemon and baking powder rather than with a cleaner that uses chemicals.

  • Use a reusable bottle for water or other drinks.

  • When you leave a room, turn off the lights and unplug electronic devices that aren't in use.

  • Create a sacred space where you live; a space you create that makes you feel connected, safe, and calm.

Resources

How to create a sacred space.
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Sacred space for individuals.
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Sacred space for families.
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Read “Treading Lightly on God’s Green Earth,” an article about the connection between faith and care of the environment, including an overview of things churches are doing.
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Learn more at Blessed Earth: an organization offering biblically-based ideas and resources on faithful stewardship of God’s creation, founded by a former ER doctor and United Methodist pastor.
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Be an advocate, learn more at UM Creation Justice: ways you can advocate for laws that protect the planet.
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Experience the Gardens

You’re welcome to walk, rest, and fully experience the gardens of FUMC during daylight weekday hours and daylight weekend hours. We hope the gardens bring you peace and you experience the presence of God’s unconditional love and embrace.