In October, the General Board of Global Ministries’ EarthKeepers program brought together a cohort of United Methodists for training in environmental stewardship on the Wesley Homes Campus in Des Moines, Washington. These participants completed theological and practical work in creation-care theology, community organizing, anti-racism, and environmental project development. An online commissioning service presided over by GNW Area Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth was held on November 4, affirming the call of these new EarthKeepers and blessing their ministry.
The 2025 class includes 72 new EarthKeepers representing 24 annual conferences across all five U.S. jurisdictions.
In the Oregon‑Idaho Conference, three EarthKeepers (Barb Reuter; Rev. Zaida F. Huereca; and Louise Darling) were trained and commissioned.
In the Pacific Northwest Conference, 14 EarthKeepers (Sharon Feucht; Pat Gray; Vanessa Perkinson; Chelsey Reese; Rev. Jackie Celin; Laura Osborn; Dr. Gwen Wood; Judy Le Blanc; Sarah Lai; Rev. Ruth Marston-Bihl; Kathryn Rauhauser; Melanie Wienecke; Lourdes Tifre; Karen Biggers; Gail Huggins; Rev. Dan Gerhard; Dr. Darold Ward; Janet Ward; and Andi Villar Arroyo) were trained and commissioned.
For those who were unable to join the live service, a recording of the commissioning service is now available, allowing congregations to celebrate these new EarthKeepers and to inspire creation-care ministry where they are.
Through this training, EarthKeepers are equipped not only with knowledge but also with concrete project plans to implement in their congregations and communities. Their work spans energy efficiency, sustainable food systems, community resilience, and environmental justice, all grounded in faithful action.
