Two Mennonite congregations in Ontario have received awards from Greening Sacred Spaces, a Canadian organization that helps people of different faith traditions find common ground in seeking peace, human rights, eco-sustainability and compassion. Green Sacred Spaces awards feature several congregations each year that have demonstrated commitment to caring for the earth.
Elmira Mennonite Church, Elmira, Ont., won a Green Sacred Spaces award in 2012 for activities ranging from installing low-flow toilets to hosting a carshare parking spot. The congregation also installed a solar array. Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church, Kitchener, Ont., was recognized in 2011 for a long list of efforts. The congregation purchased a new energy-efficient furnace, upgraded the insulation on church-owned homes, and held events such as a 100-mile potluck and Lenten carbon fasts.