This post is written for the “Save the Ocean” group-writing project.

When we talk about “places of worship”, we automatically think of the mosques/temples/churches that we go to. And the next thing that comes to mind is more often than not, our reason for being there. To worship God, regardless of whether we are Muslims, Buddhists or Christians or of other faiths.

But do you know that we can also talk about things other than religion in our places of worship? It shouldn’t come as a surprise if we found another worshiper who is also an environmentalist! :D

Photo credit: Angela Sevin.

Now, along with moments of transcendence and joy, the ocean can also provide solace, giving us a sense of being a part of a larger whole. Increasingly, our different religious congregations, faiths and leaders see that part of our religious duty is to act as guardians (or stewards) of the environment.

Photo credit: Clinton Steeds.

Here are some suggestions on how to preserve our ocean:

• In your place or worship, organize a youth outreach project to protect the sea, such as a beach clean-up. In fact, beach clean-ups can be carried out once every three to four months, not necessarily on World Clean Up Day in September.
• Hold a spiritual service by the ocean or by a waterway (river, perhaps) that flows to the sea.
• Determine how your faith should guide you in taking actions for the coasts and oceans. Discuss the role of water in your faith and how you and your fellow worshipers might better act to protect the world’s waters.
• Invite a marine conservation biologist from a local university or ocean group (Malaysian Nature Society, perhaps?) to your place of worship to discuss matters relating to religion, science and the ocean.

Recommended reads:

• National Religious Partnership for the Environment
• Forum on Religion and Ecology
• Religion and Environment Initiative

January 2008 is “Save the Ocean” month here at The Giving Hands. Click here for more information on how you too, can save our oceans, and remember to subscribe to The Giving Hands for your daily updates!