An environment of understanding

Published June 24, 2006 - Glendale News Press - Los Angeles Time

IN THEORY

An environment of understanding

Q: Bill Clinton on Thursday praised evangelical Christians for signing "Climate Change: An Evangelical Call to Action," a statement that defines care of the environment as a Christian value. Do you agree that care of the environment is a religious imperative? And how can faith play a role in maintaining a healthy environment?

A: Without a doubt the care of our environment and our planet should be a top concern for all people of faith. The earth is the common denominator for all traditions because it is tangible and yet very sacred. From the tiniest seedling to the largest mountain, all of nature reflects the splendor of God.

Armenians have had the added responsibility of being custodians of the sacred lands known as the "Cradle of Civilization." In Genesis 2:10 the location of the Garden of Eden is mapped in Armenia. Following the account of the Flood in Genesis 8, life begins in Armenia a second time when Noah exits on the Mountains of Ararat.

If we treat all life as a gift from God then we understand ourselves as the trusted custodian of this earth.

I refer to a Native American proverb to remind us of our sacred duty to the earth. The saying is, "We do not inherit the earth from our parents. We borrow it from our children." Seen in this light, the emphasis has changed, we are not the recipients of this treasure, merely the custodians.

We have a duty and a responsibility to transfer this treasure in tact to generations to come.

FATHER VAZKEN MOVSESIAN

Armenian Church

Glendale