An example of how Methodists have already engaged with tackling climate change is Romsey Methodist Church in Hampshire which recently received an Eco Church gold award from A Rocha in recognition of the green initiatives they have taken in the past four years.
Romsey Methodist minister, the Revd Gareth Hill, said:
“We are thrilled with the award that has come after really hard work by the whole church.”
“Since 2015 we have completely redeveloped the building to be more flexible and user-friendly. The £400,000 refurbishment was complemented by growing our work with children and families, engaging with community initiatives in the town, learning how to offer the best welcome to visitors and new worshippers - and recognising our responsibilities as stewards of this earth.
“As Christians, we believe that God as Creator is passionately concerned for the planet. We want to do our bit - not just in Romsey but on a wider scale too.”
Helen Stephens, Church Relations Manager for A Rocha UK, said:
“A Rocha UK are thrilled that Romsey Methodist have achieved their Gold Eco Church Award. Romsey Methodist Church is now our 11th Gold Awarded Eco Church in England and Wales and only the second Methodist Church to achieve this.
“We recognise it has been a community effort; with everyone from across the church getting involved from running green fayres to fundraising for solar panels. It is clear how achieving this Gold Eco Church award is not an end in itself but a springboard to greater action to address climate change in their own place of worship and community.
“We also want to recognise Romsey's role of championing Eco Church within their district. Winchester, Eastleigh & Romsey circuit was the first in the country to achieve a Bronze Award as an Eco Circuit.
“We want to encourage other Methodist churches to follow Romsey's example and join the growing Eco Church community or continue their Eco Church journeys to reach for Gold!"
Listen to Chief Executive of A Rocha UK, Andy Atkins who is also Chair of the Climate Sunday coalition, on this week’s Methodist podcast here.
Hear more about the Romsey gold award from Eco Church here.