ECO-CHURCH 

Eco-Church is a learning community of churches of all shapes,  sizes and denominations, which offers a framework to help churches take practical steps to care for God’s Earth.

2024 was a year for further establishing the habits of responsibility and sustainability in the running of our Parish, and particularly at St Denys with the largest use.  It is important to set an example to those using the Church, Kitchen and Churchyard.  We have our Bronze Award from A Rocha, but there is still Silver and Gold to strive for.

Caring for God’s Creation has never been more important – there has been wide publicity about Climate Change and the impact of our way of life on the wildlife around us,  and the planet in general.  Effort has been made to increase our use of sustainable products such as furniture polish, washing up liquid (now purchased from a Refill shop to prevent excess plastic bottles), and Fair Trade items being purchased for refreshments.  Paper waste is still an issue to be addressed but at least we are recycling, which is taken care of by a faithful helper!  Church events make sure to use food waste bags and recycle other waste.  Turning off lights when leaving the building and saving water are things everyone using the church can do.  There is now no oasis being used for flower arrangements.. 

The churchyard is cared for, mostly in the same way  it was formerly by the intervention of the Wildlife Watch Group under the direction of Margaret Grant, MBE, who is still taking an interest as she passes through on daily outings.  It is sympathetically mowed to maintain access to graves, while allowing an abundance of wild flowers including our beloved Cow Parsley, primroses, cowslips, and the glorious display of daffodils planted in 2023, and providing an opportunity for wildlife to flourish.

Goals for the coming year are for a Special Sunday, and encouragement for a stronger team to pull together to raise awareness and work towards the silver award.  Whatever your age, a member of one of our four congregations, or a member of the community anxious to help,  please get in touch with me to get involved!  Thank you for your continued support for this vital project.