“We are stewards of creation; this tree reminds us that every step we take as Commissions, as Officers, and Networks has repercussions for creation,” says Henk Stenvers, MWC president. It also symbolizes our presence in the world, he said.
The Executive Committee, Commissions, staff and Creation Care Task Force planted a linden tree (tilia cordata) at Schönblick, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany, 23 May 2025.
Since 1999, Mennonite World Conference has planted a tree as a marker of the meeting of the Executive Committee.
The linden tree was selected by the gardener Gottfried Gladis. Besides being a local species, the linden tree has symbolic meaning.
Tradition holds that a linden tree was planted on the burial site of Menno Simons. The grave was otherwise unmarked to avoid trouble.
Additionally, the linden tree has historically been planted in German village centres. Old folk songs speak of gathering around the linden for community celebrations.
“The park is a huge part of Schönblick,” said Luis Fress, Schönblick hotel manager, who granted the request to plant. Many volunteers are eager to work on the site and the local kindergarten makes excursions to play among the trees and flowers.
Also, a vast vegetable garden provides food for the kitchens. “The garden is a part of our daily life here,” he said. Planting a tree on the grounds creates a permanent connection between the Protestant centre and the Mennonites who are spending over a week on site, he said.
Calling the tree “a symbol of life, hope and faithfulness,” Lisa Carr-Pries, MWC vice-president, prayed a blessing and confession. “Remind us, Lord, that creation care is not a one-time act but a way of living – in what we eat, how we travel, what we consume and how we pray.
“We remember, too, those places today where creation groans – where forests burn and rivers flood, where climate extremes bring hunger, displacement and loss,” she prayed. “Be near to those who suffer. Awaken the hearts of the powerful. And inspire all of us to action rooted in love.”