St Winifred’s Church, Penrhiwceiber, celebrates five years of environmental excellence

St Winifred’s Church in Penrhiwceiber has once again been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Community Award, marking an incredible fifth consecutive year of recognition. The award, which sets the benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces across the UK and beyond, celebrates not only the beauty of St Winifred’s grounds but also the deep sense of care and community behind them.

Over the past five years, a small but dedicated team of volunteers has lovingly maintained the church’s outdoor space. Their work has transformed the grounds into a welcoming, prayerful environment for the whole community to enjoy—from children planting bulbs at Easter, to neighbours gathering at the outdoor Shrine of Mary to pray the rosary in the midst of God’s creation.

Fr Matthew Gibbon, Cynon Valley South Ministry Area Leader, said, “A team of volunteers work so hard to keep the grounds looking neat and tidy. It’s wonderful to see the community spirit here.

“We’re absolutely delighted to receive the Green Flag Award for the fifth year running.

This is more than just tidy flowerbeds—it’s our church family living out our faith in the heart of the community. In Genesis 2:15, God calls us to ‘work and take care’ of the garden, and that’s exactly what our volunteers are doing: tending creation with love, prayer, and purpose.

From schoolchildren planting bulbs to neighbours gathering at the Shrine to pray the rosary, it’s a beautiful witness to God’s goodness and our shared calling to care for the earth.”

The Green Flag Award not only celebrates sustainability and community care but also affirms the church’s role at the heart of Penrhiwceiber—offering beauty, peace, and a sacred space where faith, community and creation come together.