For Annette James, Eco Church is about much more than practical changes to church buildings and land. It is about helping congregations consider their place within God’s creation and what that means for the way they live, worship and engage with the world around them.
As Lay Licensed Minister and Sustainable Food Advocate at Christ Church Toxteth Park, Annette knows what it looks like when creation care becomes part of a church’s everyday life. The church has reached Gold Eco Church status, the highest level in A Rocha UK’s award scheme, recognising its work across areas including worship and teaching, buildings and energy, land and nature, community engagement and lifestyle. On Saturday 3 October, it will host the North West celebration of 10 years of Eco Church and 25 years of A Rocha UK.
Looking at the impact Eco Church has had, Annette points to the way it can bring together different parts of church life.
“Our first mission is to protect, to care for the earth, for God’s creation.”
For Annette, that mission reaches into the everyday life of a congregation, from the way it uses its land and manages food waste to the choices it makes around biodiversity and sustainability.
She also sees creation care as closely connected to the Christian understanding of our relationship with one another.
“We must constantly move forward and love our neighbours worldwide. We are all part of creation; we all depend on the planet, on flora and fauna.”
That sense of connection is reflected in the practical work Annette has been involved in at Christ Church. She talks about composting, reducing food waste, growing food locally and increasing biodiversity, alongside raising awareness of issues such as the slave trade and fair trade.
For Annette, these things are not separate concerns. They are part of understanding what it means for the Church to live out its faith.
“The church has an opportunity to be a prophetic voice, to work with local communities, to appreciate the land as a blessing for all creatures. ”
She also believes churches have a huge amount of knowledge and experience within their own congregations which can be brought into this work.
“Gather people around you who are able to help. Draw on the expertise of people in the congregation.”
That collaborative approach is part of what Annette hopes people will take from the Eco Church anniversary celebration. It is a chance for people who have been part of the movement to share what they have learned, celebrate the work already taking place and consider what comes next.
“It’s going to be fun. We’re going to celebrate and learn together.”
And while Annette acknowledges that knowing where to begin can sometimes feel daunting, she encourages churches to recognise the progress they have already made.
“Looking at what you need is daunting, but look at what you’re already doing. You’d be surprised what you’ve already accomplished.”
The North West Eco Church 10th Anniversary celebration takes place at Christ Church Toxteth Park on Saturday 3 October, from 1pm to 4pm. The afternoon will include an ecumenical service followed by a panel discussion exploring the journey of Eco Church over the past decade and looking ahead to the future.
Whether you are already involved in Eco Church, part of a church working towards an award, or simply interested in sharing ideas and learning from others, the celebration is an opportunity to come together.
The event is free, but spaces are limited. Advance booking is required.
