Kohima, June 7 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has called on churches across the state to take an active role in environmental stewardship, stating that caring for creation is a biblical responsibility and an expression of Christian witness.
In a message issued on the observance of Environment Sunday, the NBCC noted that environmental crises and climate change have emerged as major global challenges, affecting both human beings and other living creatures. It said Christians have a special responsibility to care for the Earth because they believe God entrusted humanity with the stewardship of creation.
The council stated that caring for creation is not a political agenda but a biblical mandate. Citing Genesis 2:15 and Psalm 24:1, it said Christians are called to responsibly manage the land, water and air, while demonstrating love for their neighbours, particularly vulnerable communities that are most affected by pollution and climate-related disruptions.
According to the NBCC, observing Environment Sunday provides churches an opportunity to acknowledge God as Creator and Sustainer through worship, teach believers about creation care, engage in practical community service, and demonstrate that the Gospel inspires actions that restore and protect the environment.
As part of the June 2026 observance, churches were encouraged to undertake community clean-up drives, tree plantation activities, waste management awareness campaigns, and prayer services for the environment, farmers and communities affected by environmental harm. Churches were also urged to focus Sunday sermons on "Creation Care and Christian Responsibility" and commit to long-term environmental initiatives such as waste reduction, community gardens, promotion of organic products and youth education programmes.
The NBCC, along with the Nagaland Pollution Control Board and the Students Christian Fellowship, jointly organised a programme at the NBCC office in Bayavü with church leaders and pastors from Kohima. The council expressed hope that future observances would see wider participation and expanded activities.
The NBCC stated that it had directed all church associations to observe Environment Sunday as part of its calendar and expressed appreciation for the response received from churches, schools, villages and civil society organisations across the state.
