April 2025 Eco report

As the very long-standing Editor of Outlook, I always feel blessed when I’m sent contributions or ideas. 

So, I was pleased when Jill sent me a newsletter from a non- denominational Christian charity called A Rocha UK. They are part of the international A Rocha family, a network of Christian organisations present in more than 20 countries in six continents, who exist to encourage churches and their congregations to become more eco-friendly and to protect and take care of the wonderful world that God gave us. 

I attended their webinar, “The Green Heart of Mission”, which gave many ideas and encouragement for moving forward. If you would like to listen to it, you can find a recording on their website. The charity covers all aspects of looking after our world, from energy use to species protection, campaigning and providing relevant Christian resources.  They run conservation activities on their own reserves and advise a network of conservation partners across the UK. They are funded by individuals, churches and grants.                                           

Great timing with this is the proposal from the URC to appoint church Eco-Friends, and I have put my name forward for this role in our church, which will be voted on at the April church meeting. Our church has been accredited with the Eco Church Bronze award, so we are joining 8000 churches who have registered and 4000 who have an eco-award, thanks to ARocha UK for the scheme

I’d like to take this further, starting with having an “eco” page in every issue of Outlook. If you feel strongly or have knowledge about a subject, then I’d love an article or your thoughts and ideas. Maybe you’re a keen gardener with hints and tips for a pollinator friendly garden, or care about plastic and waste issues? Maybe you have a favourite place where you enjoy the beauty of nature? Maybe you’d like to join me in being an A Rocha “Wild Christian”? Let’s see what we can do!      

Maria Boys