Eco Church is an initiative by A Rocha, a Christian charity focused on the environment. Its goal is to help churches of all backgrounds take action to protect our planet.
Sally Chaplain, who works with young people at Great Ayton Methodist Church (GAMC), shares their experience: “We joined Eco Church after seeing the positive steps taken by Christ Church in Great Ayton.”
One key area Eco Church highlights is how churches manage their buildings. At GAMC, they’re working on a decarbonization project. This includes installing air source heat pumps to replace their old gas boiler. The aim? To cut down on carbon emissions and reduce energy costs. “This shows our community our commitment to protecting God’s creation,” Sally explains.
Eco Church also encourages churches to use their land wisely. At GAMC, they’ve started managing their grounds to support local wildlife. They’ve put up bird boxes to attract species like robins and house sparrows. The church garden, full of hedges and flowers, is open for the community to enjoy, making it a peaceful spot.
Worship at GAMC includes messages about caring for nature, especially during the Harvest season. Sally mentions, “We’re planning a Study Day in September 2026. It will focus on our responsibilities to protect the Earth for future generations.”
As members of Eco Church, they also work towards a fairer world. GAMC supports organizations like Christian Aid and Fairtrade, which help communities affected by climate change and poverty.
The initiative pushes them to reflect on their personal lifestyles and the small changes they can make to be more eco-friendly. The church shares tips on their website and in newsletters, encouraging active transport like walking or cycling when possible.
GAMC has the Silver Eco Church award and aims for Gold next. This journey has prompted them to rethink their practices and explore new ways to operate. “It’s a continuous, important project,” Sally says.
The Eco Church program serves as a powerful example of how communities can come together to make a difference. For more information, check out the official Eco Church site here.
Additionally, the Stokesley & Villages Climate Action group invites everyone to their monthly meetings. The next one is on Tuesday, May 19th, at Stokesley Community Library. It will feature an illustrated talk on exploring the North York Moors without a car.
By taking these steps, communities can help combat the climate crisis while nurturing a spirit of social responsibility. Raising awareness, supporting each other, and embracing eco-friendly practices can lead to a more sustainable future.
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GAMC, Eco Church, Christ Church, Sally Chaplain
