My Sabbatical Proposal is Care for Creation and will focus on the implications of the Biblical command to keep the Sabbath and the practice of Sabbatical (allowing the earth to rest) for Christian care of self, others and the environment. I am intrigued by the question of how much environmental degradation is the result of our inability or refusal to obey God's commandment to rest (to cease the cycle of production and consumption), and to allow the world (creatures, air, water and earth) to rest. My Sabbatical proposal is broken into three areas of rest, renewal and rebirth. My times of rest will include rowing, hiking, reading scripture, praying and planting, nurturing and harvesting an organic garden. Times of renewal will include extensive readings in Christian theology and the environment as well as researching local environmental initiatives. Times of rebirth will include travel to meet with ecumenical and interfaith partners in Geneva, Switzerland on issues pertaining to the environment, a retreat with reflections on Celtic Christianity and creation on the Isle of lona in Scotland, and preparation to incorporate my learning into the life and ministries of my congregation upon my return.