Guest editor Megan Burke of Holy Trinity Church
At Holy Trinity Church we are looking at how we can be more aware of the climate and nature crises and thinking about what action we can take – as individuals and as a community. Like other churches in Frome, we are part of Eco Church – a framework which helps us to consider how to incorporate practical action in caring for God’s earth in all areas of church life.
In March we had a Saturday morning workshop with activities in the ‘Wildlife Garden’ in the churchyard. Adults and children worked together to build bird boxes, make a dead hedge and a bug hotel. I walked there this week; the grass has grown long with a mown path and someone has put a chair to one side. I was pleased to see glorious elderflower blossoms and yellow rattle flowering and signs of birds and butterflies making this space their home.
The churchyard is a haven for people whether as a green space for walking dogs in this part of town or as a place to contemplate life and remember loved ones who have died. Churchyards are also havens for wildlife. Important plant species can be found in the undisturbed space and many churches are considering how to be more welcoming to wildlife whilst respecting the needs of people.
At Holy Trinity we will soon be carrying out a questionnaire in the local community to find out who uses the churchyard, what they value about it and to ask for ideas to make the area more nature friendly.
If you are interested to find out more and to join in, on Sunday 20th July we are focusing on care for God’s creation at each of the services (9am and 11am). At 4pm there will be a short time of outdoor worship, with fun, hands-on activities in the churchyard and refreshments. Caroline Pomeroy, director of Climate Stewards will be speaking. Everyone is welcome.
