The program’s mission is to find practical solutions to green issues in the church, including recycling, composting, gardening and energy conservation. Krista Kimble, an adult B.U.G.S. member, decided to start a program for elementary-age children in the church called Jr. B.U.G.S. The group meets weekly to learn about the role kids can play in caring for creation.

“Always, our weekly lessons are connected to scripture, such as the creation story, various psalms or a parable,” said Kimble.

Members earn badges for participating in various activities. The “Wanda Worm” badge rewarded kids who learned the recipe for compost and searched through some of the church’s compost for critters that help break down the waste. The “Lucy Ladybug” badge recognized the Jr. B.U.G.S. who helped plant seeds indoors and who will plant and care for the seedlings in the church garden over the summer.

As produce grows in the garden, the children will share it with local food pantries as well as older people in the church who are no longer able to care for a garden.

Members recite the Jr. B.U.G.S. pledge at each meeting: “As a Jr. B.U.G.S. member, I pledge to: Learn more about the Earth that God created; explore ways that I can be a better steward of the environment; help to make the world a better place; and teach others to do the same.”

In the summertime, the group plans field trips for litter cleanup and site visits to places like the local recycling facility.

Manassas Church of the Brethren
Contact: Krista Kimble
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Website: www.juniorbugs.com