FPC Elizabethton Gets Green Award

This was in today's Elizabethton Star. I am proud as punch of my people who have been green long before being green was cool.

First Presbyterian Church receives Green Interfaith Network Award

JOHNSON CITY -- First Presbyterian Church of Elizabethton has been chosen as recipient of the Eco-Justice Award from the Green Interfaith Network. The GINI Awards honor congregations in the region that demonstrate outstanding projects or programs that support environmental justice, earth care, education and/or community leadership.

First Presbyterian Church of Elizabethton was chosen for the Eco-Justice Award for its longstanding commitment to caring for the earth through the Carter County-Dennis Cove Stream Clean-Up events.

This award exists for people and congregations who believe they can move a mountain. First Presbyterian of Elizabethton believes -- through faith -- that they can move mountains, together as a congregation. For over 20 years, the annual Carter County-Dennis Cove Stream Clean-Up is just one of many eco-justice initiatives that they have implemented over the years. First Presbyterian of Elizabethton are champions for all who believe the world can be changed. Led by its Peace-making Committee, First Presbyterian of Elizabethton serves as a shining example of earth friendly practices for faith communities and the region at large.

Accepting the award for the church were Nancy Barrigar and Rebecca Nunley, both longstanding members of the Peace-making Committee.

Others awards presented and the recipients included the Stewardship Award given to First Presbyterian Church of Bristol for its "green" facilities renovation project that included a geothermal heating and cooling system, electrical upgrades and "replacing, caulking and re-glazing over 160 windows throughout the property."

Rev. Gordon Turnbull, senior pastor, and Betsy Galliher, church administrator, accepted the award.

The Spirit Award was given to Munsey Memorial Methodist Church of Johnson City for its "Care for Creation" Sunday services and Wednesday night "Care for Creation" Speakers series.

Accepting the award for Munsey were Brian Taylor, senior pastor, Beth Witt, co-director of outreach, and Aubrey Lee, chairman of church and society committee.