Visakha Christian Forum Champions Creation Care on World Environment Day
On the occasion of World Environment Day, 5 June 2025, the Visakha Christian Forum for Creation Care (VCFCC), with the support of Transbiblica and local partner Swanthana, led a series of impactful environmental initiatives under the banner of faith-based stewardship. More than 50 churches and nearly 200 volunteers from across Visakhapatnam joined hands to demonstrate their commitment to protecting God’s creation.
Preparations began a month in advance, with planning meetings and consultations involving church leaders across the city. VCFCC invited churches to take part in various activities, reinforcing the message that caring for the environment is an act of worship and discipleship.
The day began with a Beach Cleaning Drive at YMCA Beach, held from 6:00 to 8:00 AM. Organized in partnership with Chruches, the drive brought together pastors, youth groups, and congregants who worked side by side to clean the coastline.
“This is more than just cleaning trash,” said Mr. Pragnan Kumar, Executive Director of Swanthana and a key organizer. “It is our spiritual responsibility to care for the Earth, the oceans, and all God’s creatures.”
Later that day, VCFCC representatives participated in a stakeholders’ meeting hosted by the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC). The meeting focused on how churches and faith communities can support the city’s efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly practices. Christian leaders at the meeting shared their vision for faith-driven environmental engagement and pledged their support to GVMC’s sustainability goals.
As part of the wider campaign, VCFCC also called on churches to observe Eco-Sunday on 8 June 2025. With communication resources provided by EFICOR, letters were sent to congregations across the city, encouraging them to preach on environmental themes, offer prayers for creation, and host community events. Many churches responded wholeheartedly, integrating creation care into their worship services.
“This event is not just about picking up trash,” shared one church leader. “It’s an opportunity to fulfill our God-given duty to care for the Earth, the oceans, and all living creatures. The oceans, sandy shores, and biodiversity are sacred gifts—systems that sustain life and reflect God’s glory.”
VCFCC emphasized that creation care is rooted in Christian theology. The Bible teaches that humanity, made in God’s image, is called to “subdue” and “keep” the Earth—a mandate of stewardship, not exploitation. Although the Fall disrupted this harmony, Christ’s redemptive work extends to all of creation, renewing hope for its restoration. Thus, caring for the environment is not optional—it is a vital expression of Christian faith, love for neighbor, and obedience to God.
– Salathiel Nalli