The people of First Grace UMC of New Orleans, LA, know first hand the devastation caused by severe storm events. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina destroyed First UMC of New Orleans and Grace UMC. When the churches merged to form First Grace UMC 13 months later, sustainability became a top priority. “One of the most at-risk cities for the effects of global warming is New Orleans, and one of the biggest contributors to global warming is energy usage,” according to Sarah Fleming, a church volunteer. Volunteers participated in a sustainability seminar sponsored by Sustainable Churches of South Louisiana, an initiative of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference. Using what they learned, the churches conducted energy ratings at churches throughout the New Orleans area, finding at least $2,000 in savings at each location. As the church rebuilds, it is working to effectively curb its energy consumption.

Contact: First Grace UMC
Contact: Sarah Fleming
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