By Rev. Aaron Lauer

As summer comes to a close, walking around my neighborhood in the evening becomes more and more pleasant with each passing day. The cooler weather means my walks can be more like strolls, as I enjoy the gentle breeze and take in the beauty of our South Florida landscape. 

We are indeed blessed to call this garden our home. There is nothing like a Royal Poinciana in full bloom, a flock of ibises on the front lawn, the sound of the Atlantic’s waves lapping against the shoreline, or the taste of mango fresh from the tree. The beauty of our created world is indeed something to be grateful for.  

During September, many churches celebrate the Season of Creation. This is a time in which we honor the wonders of the natural world and our work to protect it all. The season ends on October 4, which happens to be the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi who is the patron saint of animals and the environment. If you’ve ever seen a statue of St. Francis, you probably noticed the birds on his shoulder and in his palm, as well as the animals gathering around his feet. 

My church has been celebrating this season for the past month and I’ve been inspired not only by their stories of nature but also their commitment to protect the environment. In the second story of creation in the book of Genesis (yes, there are two of them!) God tells humans to work the land and protect it. We are called to be keepers of this Garden Earth, making sure it is nourished and cared for. 

I hope that this fall you will find ways to enjoy our beautiful habitat here in South Florida! And even more so, that you will do your part in protecting this creation that we call our home. 

Peace and love,

Pastor Aaron