For us, this award is about much more than a certificate. It recognises the steps we have taken as a church to care for God’s creation, our environment, and our local community.

A big part of our journey has been the development of The Hive Community Garden. Our weekly Gardening Club brings volunteers together to grow plants and vegetables, care for our outdoor spaces and create a welcoming environment for wildlife. We have developed areas such as our bug hotel and vegetable beds, while encouraging people to learn more about nature and biodiversity.

Our environmental work also reaches into our wider community. Through groups such as Buzz and Bloom Toddler group, we have introduced children and families to activities that encourage them to appreciate and care for the natural world.

We have also taken part in The Big Green Week and continue to look at how we can make more sustainable choices, including supporting Fairtrade and considering the environmental impact of our purchasing.

Perhaps most importantly, our Eco Church journey has shown us that caring for creation can also be a way of bringing people together. The Hive and its garden provide a space where people can volunteer, learn new skills, enjoy nature, and build friendships.

Our Silver Award is the result of lots of small changes and the hard work of our church members, volunteers, and community groups.

Silver is not the end of our journey; it is the beginning of the next chapter.

We look forward to continuing to develop our garden, encourage biodiversity, make greener choices, and find new ways to care for both our planet and our community.

Together, we are growing faith, growing community, and growing a greener future.

If your church would like to get involved with Eco Church, move to the next level or share what your church has been doing please contact the Eastern Synod’s Green Apostle, Jeremy Flack jeremyflack25@gmail.com