This article was published by Episcopal News Service on April 30, 2025. Shireen Korkzan, author.
As climate change increasingly threatens the people, industries, and ecosystems of Long Island, the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island is taking action. On May 3, the diocese will host a “Fight for the Earth” Day Retreat and Spring Festival at the George Mercer, Jr., Memorial School of Theology in Garden City, underscoring its growing commitment to environmental justice and creation care.
The event will include morning prayer, educational sessions on climate advocacy and sustainable living, and a family-friendly afternoon festival with activities ranging from gardening and beekeeping to youth-focused advocacy training. Leaders across the diocese—including Bishop Lawrence C. Provenzano—are calling on the church to make creation care a matter of spiritual responsibility.
The industries here – the working-class people of our diocese – what is happening with the environment is so essential to both their livelihoods, and the future of their actual existence is paramount,” said Bishop Provenzano in an interview with Episcopal News Service.
With its combination of working farms, vulnerable coastlines, and densely populated neighborhoods, Long Island faces some of the most acute environmental risks in the state. Yet the diocese is not standing still. From banning single-use plastics to educating youth about greenhouse gases, Long Island Episcopalians are embracing their role as stewards of God’s creation.