The parish of Higher Bebington takes seriously its care of the environment. In a short video which can be viewed below, local Vicar and co-chair of the environment forum, Revd Mike Loach, shares some of the small environmental projects they're pursuing as part of the Eco-Church scheme. Projects include planting a small orchard in the church grounds and helping local men to set up a woodworking group that brings people together to build things out of recycled materials.
Care for the environment is increasingly seen as a top priority and mission imperative in the Diocese of Chester. In February 2021, the diocese confirmed that it will aim to become an Eco-Diocese following a unanimous decision by Bishop's Council to agree to work towards that target, and throughout Lent in 2021, as part of a campaign focussing on the environment and God's creation, individuals from around the diocese are sharing their own personal stories about the small ways in which they are moved to cherish the gift of life.
Speaking in March, Bishop Mark said of the environment and the importance of cherishing God's creation: "The scientific evidence that we are doing damage to our ecology, I think, is just really clear, and we have a responsibility to work together to leave a good planet for those who come after us. Wherever you are, there are little things you can do which invest in the environment, and, together we can do really big things."
How to become an Eco-Church
In order to reach Eco-Diocese status, a percentage of churches within any diocese must gain Eco-Church status. Eco-Church is A Rocha UK’s award scheme for churches in England and Wales who want to demonstrate that the gospel is good news for God’s earth. If you are ready to take the step towards becoming an Eco-Church, take a look at the A Rocha website for all the details.