St Thomas' Church is in the process of achieving recognition as an 'Eco-Congregation'. This is an accreditation open to churches of any denomination, anywhere in the country, that can demonstrate environmental responsibility in the way they run their buildings and grounds, and that they have incorporated care for creation into their worship. They also have to demonstrate that they have taken practical steps to involve their local community. So far, we have conducted an energy audit of the church, and undertaken work to make our building more energy- efficient and to reduce our energy usage. We have also switched to a green energy supplier. We now run our church garden organically, and are involved in measures to increase its biodiversity. We have also established recycling facilities in the grounds. |
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 Pledge Tree |
Our biggest initiative to date was the Environment Month held in September/October 2007. Among other things this included a bird-box making session, a volunteering event in Gillespie Park Nature Reserve, a showing of 'An Inconvenient Truth, a 'wild food' walk and a variety of talks on aspects of spirituality and the environment and on Christianity, Islam and the environment. The culmination of the programme was the blessing of our Pledge Tree, whose leaves recorded promises made by the congregation towards living "greener" lives. We will be applying formally for Eco-Congregation status by the end of 2007, but this will not be the end of our efforts. We intend to continue working to reduce our carbon footprint as a church and as a congregation, and to demonstrate that our environmental concern is rooted in our religious faith, our approach to spirituality and our concern for social justice. |
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If you would like to get involved with the work of our Eco-Committee please e-mail eco@stthomaschurch.info |
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