Chicago - 20081119 - Commissioner Frank Avila of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago presented the Excellence in Protecting our Water Environment Award to Father Thomas Loya of the Annunciation of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church in recognition of exceptional leadership in religion and environment. Father Loya and his congregation have become a leader in environmental stewardship in their community by creating a “church in a natural environment – a living land that grows with the people who care for it and love it.”
The Annunciation Parish has used such innovative techniques as cleansing biotopes, green roofs, permeable paving, rainwater recycling systems, photovoltaics, geothermal systems, and habitat restoration to construct a home for their church that is integrated into, and grows along with, the natural environment. The Parish uses a number of “green” approaches in their landscaping, structures, and facilities. By collecting rainwater for use in running water features, irrigation, and natural system replenishment, the Parish has nearly eliminated the negative impact of surface water run-off and has instead used the water as a positive resource. The Parish also hopes to, over time, generate the energy used on the grounds from renewable sources such as the wind and sun.
Father Thomas Loya and his congregation have taken a spiritually based, proactive approach to environmental management. This approach and commitment to environmental improvement make the Annunciation of the Mother of God Byzantyne Catholic Church a worthy recipient of the Excellence in Protecting our Water Environment Award.
For more information or for an interview contact Commissioner Frank Avila, P.E., P.L.S.,
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, 100 East Erie Street, Chicago, Illinois 60611
Office Phone: 312-751-5620 - Fax: 312-751-5625 -
Photo: Commissioner Frank Avila presents the Excellence in Protecting our Water Environment Award to Father Thomas Loya.