What is Stewardship?

In ancient times, a steward was a servant who managed the resources of a household. Stewardship today means wisely managing the bounty of God’s Earth household. Modern English reflects this ancient Greek understanding of stewardship.

The word ecology at its root refers to the reasoning or logic of the household—the Earth household. Economy refers to the rule of the household.

Today, we are the stewards of God’s Earth household. The Christian tradition teaches that the land belongs to God, and we are called to care for it. To do so, our economies must reflect our
understanding of the rules of nature revealed through our knowledge of ecology. Healthy stewardship integrates knowledge of the natural world with economic and social systems that ensure the long-term sustainability of the whole of Creation, including the people within it.

Everyday Stewardship
Individual Actions
• Use CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs) to reduce energy use
• Bike or use public transportation to go to work once a week
• Use water-saving devices in sinks, showers and toilets
• Use reusable shopping bags
• Unplug appliances when not in use
• Slow down, it's more fuel efficient to drive at slower speeds
• Write, call or visit your elected officials to ask them to strengthen environmental laws

For more information check out The Eco-Justice Program office of the National Council of churches website: www.nccecojustice.org