Eco-Lent. A wooden cross sits in a lush, green woodlands by a river stream.

Eco-Lent
Study Guide

A Season of Repentance, Reflection, and Renewal for God’s Creation
Use this study guide with small-groups or for church-wide growth

How to Use This Guide:

  • Use it in a small group or church-wide Lenten study.
  • Incorporate the themes into Sunday worship, prayers, or sermons.
  • Challenge individuals to take practical steps in their daily lives.

May this season of Lent lead us to a deeper love for God, neighbor, and all of creation. Amen.


Lent is a season of repentance, self-examination, and preparation for the joy of Easter. As we reflect on our lives and seek transformation, we are called to consider not only our personal sins but also the ways in which we, as individuals and as a society, have harmed God’s creation. Eco-Lent is an opportunity to deepen our spiritual journey by committing to practices that honor the earth and promote environmental justice.

This study guide provides a framework for churches and small groups to engage with Eco-Lent over six weeks, incorporating Scripture, reflection, prayer, and action steps to care for creation.

Week 1: Creation as a Gift and Responsibility

Scripture:

Genesis 1:26-31; Psalm 24:1-2

Reflection:

God has entrusted humanity with the care of creation. How have we fulfilled or failed in this responsibility? What does it mean to be stewards rather than exploiters of the earth?

Action Step:

Perform a “creation audit” of your daily life. Identify one habit that harms the environment (e.g., excessive plastic use, food waste) and commit to changing it during Lent.

Prayer:

Creator God, open our eyes to the beauty and fragility of your world. Help us to be faithful stewards of all you have made. Amen.

Week 2: Repentance for Environmental Harm

Scripture:

Joel 2:12-13; Romans 8:19-22

Reflection:

Lent calls us to repentance—not just for personal sins but also for collective wrongdoing. How has human greed and negligence contributed to environmental degradation? In what ways does creation itself “groan” for redemption?

Action Step:

Fast from single-use plastics for a week. Reflect on how consumer habits impact the environment and consider long-term changes.

Prayer:

God of mercy, we confess that we have taken your creation for granted. Forgive us for our wastefulness and indifference. Renew our hearts to love and protect the earth. Amen.

Week 3: Living Simply and Sustainably

Scripture:

Matthew 6:19-21, 25-34

Reflection:

Jesus calls us to a life of simplicity and trust in God’s provision. How does consumerism distract us from this calling? How can we live more simply and sustainably?

Action Step:

Commit to a “Meatless Monday” or reduce your meat consumption during Lent, recognizing the environmental impact of industrial agriculture.

Prayer:

Lord, teach us to seek first your kingdom and to live in harmony with all that you have made. May we find joy in simplicity and gratitude. Amen.

Week 4: Justice for the Vulnerable

Scripture:

Isaiah 58:6-11; Luke 4:16-21

Reflection:

Environmental destruction disproportionately affects the poor, Indigenous communities, and future generations. How does our faith call us to stand in solidarity with those most impacted by climate change?

Action Step:

Research and support an environmental justice organization, either locally or globally. Consider a donation or a volunteer effort.

Prayer:

God of justice, may we use our voices and resources to stand with those who suffer from environmental harm. Inspire us to act with love and courage. Amen.

Cross draped in purple cloth at sunrise.

Everything for Lent

Week 5: Hope and Restoration

Scripture:

Revelation 21:1-5; Romans 15:13

Reflection:

God’s ultimate plan is one of renewal and restoration. How can we live as people of resurrection hope, bringing healing to creation?

Action Step:

Plant something—a tree, flowers, or a home garden—as a tangible act of participating in creation’s renewal.

Prayer:

God of new life, may we be agents of hope and renewal in the world. Help us to care for creation as a sign of your coming kingdom. Amen.

 

Week 6: Celebrating Resurrection and Renewal

Scripture:

John 20:1-18; Colossians 1:15-20

Reflection:

Easter is the celebration of resurrection and renewal. How does Christ’s victory over death inspire us to work toward the healing of the earth? How can the church be a leader in creation care?

Action Step:

Commit to an ongoing eco-discipline beyond Lent—whether through lifestyle changes, advocacy, or church-wide sustainability initiatives.

Prayer:

Risen Christ, your resurrection brings hope to all of creation. May we live as people of resurrection, working for the renewal of the earth. Amen.


Eco-Lent is not just about giving something up—it is about transformation. As we journey through Lent with an awareness of God’s creation, may we emerge at Easter more committed to caring for the earth and advocating for justice. May our faith inspire action, and may our hope lead to renewal.

Suggested Further Reading & Resources:

Progressive Church Media