Earth: Ours to Care For
Posted: March 25th, 2026
Six years ago, God placed a bold and creative vision on the heart of Dr. Mansfield Edwards – an initiative that would take Earth Day discussions far beyond global warming and climate change. The Earth Summit: Earth Ours to Care For was created for citizens of all ages to explore deeper questions that shape our understanding of the world, such as:
- Where did the Earth truly come from?
- How does the Sabbath connect with creation?
What began as a simple vision has, to our pleasant surprise, grown into a powerful gathering of diverse religions and faiths, including Sikhs and Muslims, and even many from secular academic backgrounds. Presenters have included pastors and professors from institutions such as Burman, Andrews University, Loma Linda University, Montemorelos University, Oakwood University, Advent Health, and Northern Caribbean University.
Research from the Barna Group (2023) indicates that many Christian youth who studied science at the tertiary level end up questioning their faith. Dr. Edwards has a burden to support young people in anchoring their beliefs while thoughtfully engaging with scientific inquiry. Thanks to the support of churches, communities, and businesses providing transportation over the years, the summit has welcomed over 28,000 attendees. Praise be to God!
Suicide Prevention & Intervention
In our ministry among the indigenous peoples of Northwestern Ontario, we have witnessed heartbreaking levels of suicide affecting children, youth and adults alike. Like the Earth Summit, this Indigenous Ministry—under the leadership of Pastor Mansfield Edwards—began the work to build trust among the Indigenous peoples six years ago.
In conversation with Chief Bull of the Lac Seul First Nation, the Chief made a heartfelt request for assistance in suicide prevention and intervention. In response, the Ontario Conference purchased property to establish a dedicated Centre of Influence—a safe place where Indigenous individuals can access warm meals, compassionate support, and free counselling provided by volunteer professionals.
The next step is to construct this Centre of Influence on this acquired property. The plans include repurposing and configuring shipping containers to create a welcoming, functional, and accessible space for healing and restoration.
Moving Forward Together
These two initiatives—the Earth Summit and Indigenous Ministry – reflect a shared commitment to caring for both creation and the people God has placed within it. As we look ahead, we are a prayerfully trusting that God will continue to open doors, provide resources, and inspire others to join us in this important work.
Whether through prayer, volunteer service, or financial support toward the new Centre of Influence, each contribution helps bring hope, healing, and understanding to countless lives.
Together we can uplift voices, strengthen faith, and build a future where every person knows they are valued, supported, and never alone.
Rochelle Thomas
Departmental Secretary,
Office of the VP for Evangelism and Outreach, Seniors & Indigenous Ministries,
Church Planting, Revitalization & Evangelism (CPR-E),
Ontario Conference