Water reminds us of our limits—without it, our lives and communities cannot be sustained.

Water reminds us of what refreshes and renews our bodies and souls both spiritually and physically.

Water reminds us of our relationship with other creatures—animals, plants, and human alike, all living things thirst. We remember we are connected, and it is our responsibility to share this planet and its resources with all of God’s beloved creation.

Water marks the entrance of our spiritual life. One need only think of the crossing of the Red Sea, Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, the woman at the well, and Jesus describing himself as living water to gain an understanding of the importance of water in our faith.

WATER: all life springs from water. Too much or too little can bring catastrophe. It is a fundamental need of all people, yet 1 of every 6 people lack access to safe drinking water. Two million people—most of them children—die each year from waterborne disease. Access to clean water is and should be a human right and one that must be honored and respected. Clean water is essential to live a life with dignity and each person should have sufficient access to water for personal and domestic needs. In Africa and Asia, women walk an average of three miles to secure clean water for their families.

We have been blessed with the gift of water and can reflect on ways God uses water in our spiritual and faith-filled lives. We must use it with care and love—the same love that was shown to us when this water was given to us as a part of creation.

When the poor and needy seek water,
I will open rivers on the bare heights,
and fountains in the midst of the valleys;
I will make the wilderness a pool of water,
and the dry land springs of water.
Isaiah 41: 17-18