Safeguarding
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Creationtide is now underway and continues until 4 October, offering Christians a dedicated season to celebrate the wonder of God’s creation. It is a time to reflect on the minute, the mysterious and the magisterial, pausing to be mindful and attentive to the little things that surround us every day. Creationtide invites us to slow down, to notice, and to give thanks.
In Job 38 we are reminded that humanity has not uncovered all of nature’s secrets. The vastness of creation calls us to humility and awe before the Creator. Being made in God’s image, we carry a sacred responsibility, expressed in the Anglican Communion’s Fifth Mark of Mission, “to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth.”
Creationtide encourages us to celebrate through praise, prayer and thoughtful exploration of selected passages of scripture. It is an opportunity for congregations and individual disciples to feel empowered, becoming activists in their own lives, in the life of the church, in their communities and workplaces, and beyond.
The Church in Wales Times and Seasons Part 4 is dedicated to Creationtide and the stewardship of the environment. Additional resources can be found through A Rocha, Christian Aid, Caring for God’s Acre and Tearfund, offering prayers, reflections and practical ideas for churches and individuals.
Eco Church is a great way to help every part of church life work together in caring for creation. It encourages practical and spiritual engagement, bringing people together within the church and beyond. Eco Churches often become community hubs for collaborative action such as planting schemes, community gardens, river and beach cleaning and many other initiatives.
This Creationtide, if your church has not yet done so, why not complete the Eco Church survey and see how close you are to achieving an award https://ecochurch.arocha.org.uk If you already hold an award, consider aiming for Silver or Gold.
To progress, churches will need to complete the Energy Footprint Tool, which demonstrates reduction in energy use https://eft-wales.parishreturns.info To use the tool for the first time, you will need a unique church code available from the Diocesan Administrator, Abigail Heatley@cinw.org.uk.
“He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons. He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.”- Acts 14:17
As we journey through this season, may we be inspired to cherish creation, deepen our discipleship and renew our commitment to safeguarding the earth entrusted to us.
