We invite you to explore the profound connection between faith and environmental stewardship through the power of trees. Join us as we partner with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to share how congregations can transform their spaces with tree plantings that nurture creation and combat climate change. Hear inspiring stories from congregations who have embraced this program, growing both their sacred spaces and their commitment to protecting the environment. Discover how planting trees can deepen your faith community's impact on the planet and your neighbors.
Guest Speakers:
Isaac Whitmore is the 5 Million Tree Program Manager with the Maryland DNR Department of Natural Resources – Forest Service. After earning a degree in Forest Technology from Allegany College of Maryland, Isaac began his career as a utility forester where he managed the vegetation in Right of Ways by monitoring, planning, and inspecting. Isaac served on the Boonsboro Park Board and Tree Committee for eight years. During that time, the Town of Boonboro became a Tree City USA and obtained a Growth Award for eight consecutive years. At the Maryland Forest Service, Isaac uses his urban and traditional forestry skills to promote tree plantings on private and public land throughout the state.
Mollie Rudow has spent her whole life on Chesapeake shores, growing up in Mayo, Maryland before attending St. Mary's College of
Maryland. On the shores of the St. Mary's river, she studied Philosophy and English before graduating in 2022. There, she developed a passion for environmental ethics, ecofeminism, and came to appreciate the intersectionality of issues facing the Chesapeake Bay. During her time at St. Mary's, Mollie also interned with the Sierra Club's Maryland Chapter, competed on their Ethics Bowl team, and was involved in many on-campus organizations, such as the Philosophy Club and Jewish Student Union. In her free time, Mollie enjoys fishing for invasive species, gardening, paddle boarding, and engaging in amateur ornithology.
Linda Kesselring is a long-time member of Unity by the Bay (UBB), a spiritual community located on 4 acres of beautiful woodlands on the Broadneck Peninsula near Annapolis. She serves the congregation as president of the Board of Trustees and administrative volunteer, supporting UBB’s spiritual leader, Reverend Sarah Phillips. Linda has been instrumental in several recycling projects at the church, including collection drives for shoes, corks, and eyeglasses. She initiated UBB’s application for the Trees for Sacred Places project of Interfaith Partners for the
Chesapeake and was happy to get her hands dirty on the day the trees were delivered and planted.
Gary Magnus is a dedicated member of Oseh Shalom, where he currently serves as the Administrative Co-Vice President overseeing
Building and Grounds. A nearly retired pharmacist with over 40 years of experience, Gary has been an active part of the Oseh Shalom community since 1992. His passion for environmental stewardship was evident in the recent planting of over 55 trees, an effort made possible by the incredible turnout of volunteers. When he’s not caring for the synagogue or his home, Gary enjoys traveling and exploring the beauty of the world.
These webinars are supplemental to IPC's Faithful Green Leaders Training Program and are free and open to all.
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