Beginning on All Saints’ Day 2026, Bishop Paula Clark has authorized congregations in the Diocese of Chicago to experiment with adding a sixth promise to the Baptismal Covenant that reflects our shared responsibility to care for God’s creation. The five traditional Baptismal Covenant promises from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer will remain unchanged.
This diocesan initiative follows Resolution B001, adopted by the 81st General Convention in 2024, which encouraged dioceses to explore additional creation care language while the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music develops recommendations for consideration by the 82nd General Convention in 2027.
Congregations may use one of two approved creation care questions or propose alternative language. Educational preparation for baptismal candidates and congregations is expected, and feedback on the experience is requested.
The approved questions are:
- “Will you strive to safeguard the integrity of God’s creation, and respect, sustain and renew the life of the Earth?” or
- “Will you cherish the wondrous works of God, and protect [or protect and restore] the beauty and integrity of all creation?”
Congregations using one of the approved questions should notify Karin Gutierrez and Terry DeLisio within one week of its use. Those wishing to use alternative wording should submit it in advance to Gutierrez and DeLisio. For details, contact Karin Gutierrez and Terry DeLisio.