Solar panels on the roof at Grace Church
Bishop Bud Cederholm, retired bishop suffragan, blessed the new 25 Kw solar array at Grace Church in Medford on Oct. 2.
The installation of the solar array is the result of years of work by the Grace Church community and the culmination of an effort to reduce the church's carbon footprint as part of the Genesis Covenant, which calls churches to reduce their carbon footprint by 50 percent. In the last few years Grace Church has installed new LED and compact florescent lighting, new energy efficient appliances and a high efficiency gas heating system. All of these improvements are meant to reduce the energy use of the church building and be a sign and witness of the parish's commitment to the environment and care of creation.
The gathering for the blessing service included prayers for the environment, songs and reflections. Cederholm was raised to the roof in a lift provided by the City of Medford, in order to sprinkle the solar panels with holy water (watch the video here). The blessing was followed by a dinner and a parish "Creation Care" celebration.
Creation Care Season is observed in the Diocese of Massachusetts beginning Oct. 4 and continuing through the end of November. Find resources and events on the Creation Care page.