More than 1,400 miles of rivers and streams flow through Lancaster County, and in early June, communities across the region came together to celebrate these life-giving waterways that nourish both people and ecosystems. Now in its 9th year, Lancaster Water Week—created and organized by the Lancaster Conservancy—continues to grow as a unifying force. This year’s celebration was supported by local businesses, nonprofits, artists, educators, municipal partners, and faith communities, who collectively hosted more than 60 events ranging from educational programs and nature walks to scientific demonstrations, kayaking excursions, and community gatherings.

At Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake (IPC), we’re proud to have supported Lancaster Water Week for the fourth consecutive year. In collaboration with five of our Partner Congregations and other local allies, IPC was involved in more than ten events that reached over 100 participants, many of whom were introduced to IPC and our growing network of over 75 faith communities engaged in watershed stewardship across Lancaster County.

Our activities included Sacred Habitat Nature Walks at Ascension Lutheran Church, Hope Episcopal Church, and Rader Park at Church of the Apostles UCC, where participants learned how congregations are using native plants, pollinator gardens, and stormwater practices as acts of faith and stewardship. We also hosted multiple kayak trips on the Susquehanna River with KayakLanco, where participants reflected on the sacredness of water and our shared responsibility to protect it. At two Lunch & Learns—hosted by Unitarian Universalist Church of Lancaster and Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd—community members gathered to explore how spiritual teachings intersect with environmental responsibility.

We were honored to be joined by staff from both the Lancaster Conservancy and the Lancaster Clean Water Partners at several events, deepening collaboration between faith-based, environmental, and civic organizations. These moments of connection help reinforce a shared commitment to clean water, while also strengthening our collective impact.

These events didn’t just educate—they helped us build relationships. We were thrilled to be joined by staff from the Lancaster Conservancy at one of our walks, strengthening the connection between environmental and faith-based partners. We also connected with someone who can help us engage the Baha’i community in Lancaster, an exciting opportunity to broaden our interfaith reach. At Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, we met the congregation’s new pastor and had a meaningful conversation about IPC’s work through the One Water Partnership, sharing how we've supported dozens of local congregations in putting their faith into action for clean water.

Whether it was floating under sycamore canopies on the Susquehanna, watching Green Herons chase each other in restored habitat at Rader Park, or gathering in sacred spaces to discuss watershed theology, each moment reinforced the idea that faith communities are essential partners in environmental restoration. They are trusted messengers, long-term land stewards, and powerful conveners—and Lancaster Water Week is a unique opportunity to lift up their leadership and connect people across traditions.

Participating in Water Week is always a highlight of our year. We are so grateful for the opportunity to share our knowledge, build community, and celebrate the incredible work happening across Lancaster County.

Thank you to all the congregations, partners, and attendees who helped make this year's Water Week a success. We can’t wait to see what next year brings in 2026!