By Kelline Linton, Staff Writer
When describing a road trip to North Carolina, librarian Gary Oliver did not comment on the gas prices, traffic or weather; he talked about the trees. The trees were dying, and he “couldn’t believe that the car [he] was driving was killing [them].”
Since that first experience with the effects of acid rain, Oliver dedicated himself as an advocate for environmental concerns and shared his stories to illustrate the impact humans have on the earth.
“We are only passing through this world; it has to stay in good shape,” Oliver said.
Oliver was one of eleven panelists who discussed environmental issues Monday night at the Creation Care: A Christian World View Chapel Forum. The open dialogue covered friendly green initiatives from low environmental impacts through building industry to recycling garbage and limiting waste.
The forum was designed to start discussion on the connection between the Christian and his or her view on the environment and the initiatives he or she can take. “The goal was for students to learn,” said Dr. Wayne Barnard, dean of spiritual life. “It seemed to me to be worthwhile, and I hope this conversation will continue throughout the [Climate] Week.”
Panelists addressed the role of a Christian as a steward. “The environment is a faith issue,” said Brandon Young, professor of art and design.
Dr. Tom Lee, professor of biology, asked students why they should care about the environment. His answer: “God wants you to care.” “We are to care for the world as God cares for it,” said Panelist Janine Morgan, professor for Oxford study abroad. “We think that nature serves humanity; that is wrong. Nature exists for God.”
Steve Roussos, one of three students on the panel and a senior biology major from Athens, Greece, challenged students to consider if they were following their Christian beliefs through their actions.
To demonstrate the active role of a Christian, panelists shared their own friendly green ingenuity like recycling or preserving what was already here. Panelist Ron Morgan, professor for Oxford study abroad, compared the American and British perspectives on recycling. Americans ask, “How does it affect us; what does it cost me,” while the British ask how it affects the world.
Panelist Kitty Wasemiller, professor of interior design, discussed building reuse and adaptation in preventing unneeded squander. “It’s not just about picking up trash; it’s about creating a mind-set in the areas that you work each day,” Wasemiller said.
The evening concluded with a look at the possible future. Dr. Ben Zickefoose, professor of exercise science, discussed 2 Peter 3, the coming of the day of the Lord and global warming. “God reserved the earth and heavens for fire; I don’t know if global warming is caused by God, man or both.”
