During the weekend of October 2–4, youth across the Diocese of Chicago participated in hands-on service projects celebrating creation care. The Youth Advisory Council and Eco DioChicago encouraged locally organized sites to host service events that brought people together to care for the environment and strengthen community connections.

Congregations responded with a variety of activities.

Planting for Spring at Church of Our Saviour, Chicago

Members of Church of Our Saviour in Chicago planted 40 tulip and daffodil bulbs outside their rectory, investing in a beautiful display of spring flowers for the months ahead.

Counting Trees at Christ Church, Winnetka

Christ Church in Winnetka hosted a “150 Tree Count” in celebration of its 150th anniversary. The project was part of a Morton Arboretum initiative to measure trees throughout the greater Chicago area. Participants gathered to count and measure trees in the churchyard and made excellent progress toward its goal of documenting 150 trees on the property. The morning concluded with cider and donuts on the church patio. Participants had fun, learned a great deal, and hope to organize another tree-counting event next spring.

Three Parishes Clean Up Gardens

Multiple parishes participated in garden cleanups around the diocese. Church of the Holy Nativity in Clarendon Hills and St. Andrew’s in Downers Grove came together at St. Andrew’s Good News Garden. St. Paul and the Redeemer also hosted a garden cleanup. Over the years these gardens have produced thousands of pounds of fresh produce for neighbors.

From planting bulbs and measuring trees to tending community gardens, these projects demonstrate how congregations throughout the diocese are putting their commitment to creation care into action. Each effort, large or small, helps nurture a healthier environment and builds stronger connections among neighbors and communities. Thank you to all who participated!