FaithBridge’s annual Creation Care event set for Sept. 21

Local interfaith organization FaithBridge will host Creation Care, a Conservation Celebration, on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Pleasant Valley Conservation Area, 13115 Pleasant Valley Road, Woodstock.

This annual event is designed for people of all ages to engage in hands-on environmental stewardship, learning, play, reflection, and activities that promote a deeper connection to the earth and each other. The Creation Care event is free and open to all.

This event begins at 1 p.m. in the Pleasant Valley Conservation Area’s open-air chapel with an opening ceremony that includes music, storytelling, and spiritual connections from different faith traditions.

Immediately afterward, participants will have opportunities to work together to plant trees and pollinator plants, as well as engage in hands-on learning and play.

Educational stations are provided by a variety of organizations including Advocate Good Shephard Hospital Smart Farm, Hongik Ecofarm, Faith in Place, and local Rotary clubs with information on bees and pollinators, food as medicine, gardens, and more.

A nature play zone for young people and families includes a pretend campout and art-making as well as other opportunities for play and exploration. Creation Care concludes at 4 p.m. with a closing ceremony.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes for walking. Dress for the weather and wear clothing suitable for gardening. Additional recommendations include bringing a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, earth friendly insect repellant, and work gloves.

If possible, participants may consider bringing their own portable seating. Creation Care organizers want to ensure everyone is safe, comfortable, and are able to enjoy themselves!

FaithBridge launched its first Creation Care event in 2021 in collaboration with McHenry County Conservation District along with Advocate Good Shepherd’s very own Smart Farm, and local Rotary Clubs.

From the beginning, the event has involved participants in conservation activities that have a lasting impact on our community and its ecosystem.

Created in 2007, FaithBridge encourages interfaith communication, understanding, cooperation, spiritual practice and action.

Throughout the year, FaithBridge sponsors a variety of activities, including the upcoming annual Community Thanksgiving Service in November and a Prayer Breakfast on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January.

You can learn more about Creation Care, FaithBridge, upcoming events, and ways to get involved on the FaithBridge website at faithbridgeinterfaith.org.