Scout installs rain barrels at Disciples Christian Church

Assembled by one of the rain barrels are Troop 461 members who helped with the installation of the rain barrels at Disciples Christian Church. Kneeling by his Eagle project is Joshua Ritchey. Mark Ritchey, Joshua's father and scoutmaster, is at the far left. [photo: Ronalc Werman]

When Joshua Ritchey heard a presentation at his church, Disciples Christian Church, about working to become an environmentally friendly “Green Chalice” congregation, he wondered how he could help.

A Life Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, Ritchey is on his way to earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Perhaps he could craft an Eagle project that would contribute to the church's efforts, he thought.

With the encouragement of Mark Ritchey, his father and scoutmaster, and his Troop 461, Ritchey decided on a rain barrel installation. 

He found the planning and approval process challenging. He drew up the plans and took photos to get approval from the troop committee and the church board. A detailed PowerPoint presentation to the church board resulted in approval and also inspired individual church members to contribute funds to the project. 

On Aug. 9, Ritchey and Troop 461 members installed the 350-gallon rain barrels at the church. “The project went according to plan, no one got hurt and we finished the project on time,” Ritchey said.

As a result, Ritchey is closer to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, and Disciples Christian Church is a little greener.  

Disciples Christian Church is located at 3663 Mayfield Road in Cleveland Heights. For information, visit www.discipleschristian.org.

Ronald Werman

Ronald Werman is an elder and communications chairperson of Disciples Christian Church.

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Volume 7, Issue 9, Posted 10:30 AM, 08.29.2014