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Step 1
"Green" letters in the Green BIble. (Photo: Amanda Herron)Open the Bible to any page and notice the green font text mixed in with the regular black text. Similar to red-letter Bibles, which print any direct communication by Jesus Christ in red text, the Green Bible uses green text to highlight any Biblical verses and passage which directly refer to the environment, stewardship of the earth and natural resources, animals, or caring for other people. For quick scanning on Biblical environmental advice, just flip through the books of the Green Bible and read any green text that jumps out at you.
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Step 2
For specific questions, refer to the Green Subject Index in the Green Bible. Many Bibles include an index of spiritual topics, like salvation, sin, or adultery. The Green Subject Index works the same way to cross-reference environmental topics. Use the alphabetical index to look up issues like stewardship of animals, water, the Earth or human responsibility. Refer back to the verses in the Green Bible the Green Subject Index lists next to each topic. There may be multiple verses for broader topics such as water, air, land or animals.
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Step 3
Read the extra material included in the front and back of the Green Bible. Explore writings by current world leaders, like the forward by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, as well as spiritual leaders like Pope John Paul II. Check out the other contributions by Cal DeWitt, and N.T. Wright, as well as an introduction by Matthew Sleeth.
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Step 4
(Photo: Amanda Herron)Look throughout the Green Bible to find highlighted sections with inspirational quotes by Christian leaders or information pulled from traditional Christian teachings.
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Step 5
At the very beginning of the Green Bible, read "The Canticle of the Creatures" by Saint Francis of Assisi to prepare your mindset for the Green Bible. Saint Francis of Assisi was a Christian monk noted for celebrating creation and emphasizing care of creation. Also, read "The Clearing Rest in Song and Shade" by Wendell Berry.
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Step 6
Notice the canvas cover of the Green Bible made of cotton and linen. Pay attention to all the materials used in publishing the Green Bible and weigh them against the meaning behind the Bible's green highlighted verses. The pages are printed on recycled paper and use a soy ink. By using these materials, the Green Bible became the first Bible certified by the Forward Stewardship Council which promotes sustainable forestry.
