Two information links:
Decarbonisation of Church Buildings
The first relates to practical guidance on the decarbonisation of church buildings. Many of the laity will be interested in seeing that such guidance exists, published by the Diocese of Salford, working with the University of Manchester and the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change research. The full document has been sent to all dioceses in England and Wales. Understandably, it is a long read. I attach a short part of the guide which I hope may filter out more extensively to laity and clergy ‘on the ground’. It has potential for use in individual parishes by interested individuals or groups. See particularly Page 7 for ‘Decision Trees’ compiled on four practical themes: –
reducing heating use;
changing heating supply;
generating electricity on site;
travel to worship.
Season of Creation
The second relates to the forthcoming Season of Creation, September 1 to October 4, 2024. September 1 is the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. October 4 is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The theme this year is ‘To Hope and Act with Creation’. In previous years, parishes in Hallam have had special Masses, outdoor prayer, prayer walks, a ‘sharing table’ of harvested vegetables and fruits. Some parishes may like to seek a service of blessing for God’s gift of beloved pets.
Cafod already provides helpful information for this year’s Season on its website. Caritas Brentwood have produced some beautiful resources and are most happy to share them with other dioceses, edited for their own location if necessary. You can find them on this link
Provided are:
Daily reflections;
Novena to Saint Francis;
Changing Habits day by Day;
Laudato Si Goals.
Finally, please keep in mind that I will be leaving the environmental lead role at the end of this September, and pray that the role continues, evolving with guidance from the Holy Spirit. Columba Timmins
