The Salvation Army believes people are made in the image of God and have been entrusted with the care of the Earth and everything in it.
The Salvation Army recognises environmental degradation as one of the most pressing issues facing the world today with its effects felt disproportionately by the most vulnerable communities, particularly in terms of health, livelihood, shelter and the opportunity to make choices.
The Salvation Army is concerned about the effects of environmental damage on present and future generations. Sustainable environmental practices are required to meet today’s global needs and aspirations without compromising the lives of future generations. – The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statement ‘Caring for the Environment’[1]
In Genesis 1 and 2, God extended the care-taking of this world to us – “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. … The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it” – Subdue and have dominion over doesn’t mean we get to do whatever we like to God’s creation, but rather, as children of God, it is our responsibility to help watch over, care for and love the earth as God does.
Yet in the past century, our planet has suffered significant levels of degradation resulting in air and water pollution, ozone depletion, land destruction, increased temperatures and extreme weather conditions. Scientific research points to human activity as the leading cause of these issues. Therefore, it is our responsibility to work toward the healing of earth. The relationship of God to Creation is one of loving care and concern. As we are made in the image of God, when we are good stewards of the earth we reflect God’s love and care of creation.
To find out more about what is happening to the environment and things you can do to be a good steward of God’s creation, check out the articles in this category.
[1] ‘Caring for the Environment’, The Salvation Army International Positional Statement.
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