The name Noah brings to mind pairs of animals boarding the ark. At Central Lutheran Church, Portland, Ore., the name Noah also conjures images of pairs — though in this case it’s a pair of Noahs.
Though both differ in personalities and interests, Noah Oyen and Noah Gerlach have traversed similar paths when it comes to helping others. They have experienced cultures out of country — Oyen in Nepal and Gerlach in Nicaragua.
They also have an interest in the environment and have worked with EcoFaith Recovery. The volunteer, faith-based organization deals, in part, with caring for the earth and its resources. Both also now attend Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Wash.
“I’ve always known that I have the power to help create change. When I was a senior in high school, my youth group leader told me to help create a summer camp related to the environment and the economy and faith,” said Oyen, referring to the EcoFaith Youth Project, for which Gerlach also volunteered. “We met every week for several months figuring out all aspects of putting together this summer camp. It made me see how I can help make an impact. The program got people thinking in new ways.”
Both Noahs also participated in a Climate Action Rally at Portland’s City Hall in June.
“Before then I hadn’t realized that our values really aligned,” Gerlach said. “I thought, ‘He’s really into this too.’”
The environment continues to play a major part in Gerlach’s life.
“Currently I’m the sustainability director of my residence hall, which puts me in the position to help other residents think about sustainability and to hopefully inspire some lifelong habits to help ensure the good health of our planet for future generations,” he said.
For Oyen, the idea of helping comes from an instinct.
“It’s about following what feels right,” he said. “Then it’s about having the courage to jump into it, even if you don’t know why. There’s usually a purpose in it that will change your life in unexpected ways.”
The Noahs don’t have immediate plans to work together on other projects, but Gerlach welcomes the opportunity. “I think we’re stronger when we work together,” he said.
