Energy Efficiency in the Holy Land

As people of faith in Texas and around the United States celebrate Earth Day, TXIPL is happy to pass along one small example of action being taken in another part of the world as congregations work to combat global warming.

In the ancient Middle-eastern city of Hebron, there is a large structure that holds a considerable amount of significance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews, as it sits over the supposed burial place of Abraham, Sarah, and other figures who played central roles in the Abrahamic religions. On a recent trip to the site, which contains the historic Ibrahimi Mosque, I snapped these photos of the mosque's interior, which is lit by chandeliers using compact fluorescent light bulbs. (See below for more.)

Clearly, while the mosque dates back to the first years of the 13th century, those who worship there today have their eyes on the future and the measures they can take to protect God's creation. On this Earth Day, TXIPL hopes the image of a faith community with such strong ties to the past embracing modern, environmentally-friendly measures is inspiring for you and your congregation.