In a study released by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), researchers indicate Congo’s rich natural resources could make the nation ” a powerhouse for African development.” However, there is a caveat, “provided multiple pressures on its natural resources are urgently addressed.”

Since its beginnings, the UCBC community has been aware of this reality, developing programs such as the Creation Care committee to address local, community needs and environment concerns. Last week, the committee organized a series of events promoting the environment and sustainability at UCBC, beginning with a chapel service dedicated to theological reflection on creation.

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UCBC Theology Faculty member, Emily Parsons Hamilton, led the service and reflection on the theological and biblical imperative that God commands care for creation. She illustrated this through three key elements:

• The biblical narrative in Genesis gives witness to God’s affirmation that creation is wonderful.
• We show love to our neighbors by taking good care of the creation.
• In accord with the philosophy and the practice of “Ubuntu,” which is defined as “I am because we are,” are simple acts of caring for creation that impact all people. For example, “by taking a reusable bag to the store instead of taking one plastic bag from the seller,” minimizes waste that may have a long term impact.

Exposé: Global Warming in the Scientific Context

There was an exposé given by the Applied Sciences Faculty coordinator, Felix Katimika Vavasi. He gave the consequences of global warming in the scientific context. He explained the interdependence of ecosystems and reminded everyone of the importance of planting trees in response to deforestation. The exposé was followed by a poetry competition incorporating creation care themes was also held. UCBC Applied Science student, Sagesse Ndaliko, won, but all competitors received reusable water bottles and a banana seedling to plant at their homes.

Campus Tour of Creation Care Activities

There was a campus tour for first year students and others who may not be aware of the Creation Care activities taking place on the campus. Students discovered the potential opportunities held on UCBC’s expansive property.

Work-Service Program

Students and staff collaborated to work on creation care related campus projects. Dividing students and staff into different groups based on year and departments, they worked on the following:

• Mulching and tending to the Creation Care experimental garden called “Farming God’s Way.”
• Planting additional trees on campus.
• Composting
• Creating a creation care section in the library, setting apart environment related books.

On the last day of the week, the Ebenezer Choir sang creation care songs and Pastor Katsongo Kamate, Theology Faculty Coordinator, spoke about responsibility of women and men in the creation care process.