Mayfield Church in Chester Township recently announced several recognitions that highlight the congregation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and care for God’s creation.
The National Wildlife Federation has granted Mayfield Church a Sacred Grounds Wildlife Habitat Certification, according to a news reelase. This program recognizes congregations and faith communities that intentionally create wildlife habitat while actively linking faith practices with caring for the environment.
Through conscientious planning, landscaping, and sustainable gardening, Mayfield Church now provides essential resources for wildlife — including food, water, shelter, and places to raise young — across its 32-acre campus, the release stated.
Mayfield Church has also been recognized as a certified Monarch Waystation through Monarch Watch. This designation acknowledges the church’s efforts to create vital habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators by planting milkweed for caterpillars and nectar-rich flowers for adult butterflies.
Monarchs are the only butterflies to complete a two-way migration each year, with multiple generations traveling between Mexico and North America. This journey is increasingly threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and deforestation.
By cultivating Monarch Waystation gardens, Mayfield Church is helping protect monarchs and other pollinators for generations to come.
In addition to on-site conservation efforts, Mayfield Church is a sponsor of “Apollo the Bald Eagle” through the Adopt an Animal Program at the Lake Metroparks Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center.
Apollo is a non-releasable bald eagle ambassador with a permanent wing injury who now helps educate the public about wildlife conservation. Support through this program helps fund Apollo’s ongoing care while allowing visitors of all ages to learn about native wildlife and environmental responsibility, the release stated.
As part of its broader sustainability efforts, Mayfield Church also maintains a Recycle Closet, where community members can donate items such as hearing aids, eyeglasses, and aluminum pop can tabs. Donations may be dropped off near the Church Office during regular office hours.
Since the church was built in 2004, the Garden Ministry has planted more than 100 trees throughout the campus. These trees were placed around the pond, driveway, parking areas, and Adopt-A-Garden spaces to enhance the beauty of the grounds while providing significant environmental benefits, including cleaner air, reduced soil erosion, improved water management, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience.
Mayfield Church stated it welcomes anyone with a passion for planting or caring for the environment to get involved. Those interested in joining the Garden Ministry may contact the church office at 440-729-4006.