\u201cSince 1999, MWC has created lasting memories of Executive Committee gatherings. We have planted a tree in honour of God\u2019s creation and the universal church,\u201d says C\u00e9sar Garc\u00eda, MWC general secretary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt serves as a reminder of the significant crisis that creation faces today and of God\u2019s call to care for it. Some of these trees have thrived and now provide shade, manage water and add beauty for those who pass by,\u201d says C\u00e9sar Garc\u00eda. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chief International Events Officer Liesa Unger worked with meeting host Sch\u00f6nblick to arrange permission to plant a tree on the grounds. The gardener at the Christian retreat centre will select the tree variety and location for planting to work for success. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cLike the Chortitza\u202fOak of the Mennonites in Ukraine or the olive trees that are cherished by Palestinian brothers and sisters, trees are both practical and slightly mystical. They literally and figurative root memory in a place while fostering life as well,\u201d says Henk Stenvers, MWC president. \u201cMWC cherishes a tradition of planting a tree at Executive Committee meetings for these benefits. We hope these trees will thrive for many years, as a witness to God\u2019s abundant, good creation, a memory of the diverse people who form God\u2019s church on earth and a reminder of our responsibility to care for this creation.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do you live near one of MWC\u2019s trees?<\/a><\/strong> To mark our 100 years of Anabaptist congregations coming together like a stream of living water, we invite congregations to plant a tree. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFaith grows less like a math equation and more like a living organism. A tree can be a monument, a marker to history. It is also a sign of care for creation. A tree is a gift to the community, says Tigist Tesfaye, Deacons Commission<\/a>, secretary. \u202f <\/p>\n\n\n\n In 1997, then-general secretary Larry Miller suggested that a tree be planted whenever Executive Committee meetings took place. It hasn\u2019t always been possible, but MWC has put down its roots in at least eight places since then. The tree planted in Sch\u00f6nblick will be the ninth on record. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We would love if you would take a picture with it and send it to us.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nGrowing roots <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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