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Saint Therese receives FAITH certification from wildlife federation

From press release

Published: April 15, 2009

Saint Therese Catholic Church of Mooresville has received the "Fellowship Actions Improving The Habitat" or FAITH certification from the North Carolina Wildlife Federation.

The program is a non-denominational initiative designed to recognize and certify places of worship that meet the requirements for a wildlife-friendly habitat. Individuals from the church have taken special care to ensure wildlife has the four things needed for survival -- food, water, shelter and a place to raise their young.

"This program is designed to encourage ongoing stewardship of our wildlife and wild places in urban, suburban, and rural settings," stated Tim Gestwicki, the Wildlife Federation's Executive Director. "Direct hands-on projects are the key to fostering awareness and appreciation of our native flora and fauna."

Project participants are pleased and proud at how well the pieces came together at Saint Therese Catholic Church.

"Coordinator John Donohoe, an active member of St. Therese with an interest in environmental issues, was looking for a way to bring a 'green' focus to his church," explained Julie Higgie, a local habitat steward who acted as project advisor. "At the same time, our NCWF chapter wanted to add the 24-acre church site, which backs onto the Reeds Creek Wetland, to our proposed Wildlife Protection Corridor. This was the perfect way to fulfill everyone's goals."

The site extends 24 acres with nest boxes for bluebirds, owls and wood ducks. Native plant gardens surround the area providing food and cover for butterflies, birds and important pollinating insects. Feeding stations for birds, a meditation area and a rose garden further provide testament of this beautiful stewardship site.

Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists, the local NCWF chapter, will have a booth at the church's Earth Day Festival, set for 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 25, when the FAITH sign will be consecrated and placed on the grounds. The event will feature activities and displays on recycling, composting and gardening for wildlife.