Have you ever sat beneath a tree, looking up through its branches? Enjoyed the cool shade of some trees on a hot day? Listened to birds singing from the canopy? Climbed a tree, built a tree fort, or walked down a tree-lined path? Do you have a favorite tree? Is there a tree you see from your window each day? Have you ever stood in a pine forest and breathed in its fresh scent?

Trees are easy to take for granted. We see them every day, yet we often forget how much they are part of our lives. They provide beauty, shade, clean air, and homes for wildlife. They also play a vital role in protecting our environment and preserving a healthy future for generations to come.

Trees: Earth's Healers—Protecting the People and Places We Love is our project for this summer and fall. We invite you to take a few minutes to think about a tree—or trees—that have been meaningful in your life and share a memory, story, photo, or other reflection about why they matter to you.

A few sentences are all it takes to participate!

You can submit your thoughts and photos to Suzanne Eddings or use a tree share sheet at church. Throughout the summer and fall, we will share these contributions as we celebrate trees and all they give us. Together, we'll learn about and participate in efforts to plant and protect trees in our community and around the world. By being responsible stewards of God's trees, we can help preserve our future and support natural solutions that protect the people and places we love.

We’re looking forward to hearing your story!

GPC’s CAN (Climate Action Now) Team