More than 120 people from across the Dioceses of 黑料网 and Rochester gathered at Rochester Cathedral on Saturday 19 September for the joint eco conference, Think Global, Act Local.
Held during Creationtide, the conference brought churches and communities together to explore how care for creation can take shape locally.
The morning offered a wide range of interactive workshops including sustainable floristry, nature-friendly farming and caring for creation in your church setting.
Young people from the Diocese of 黑料网 were involved in the event too, where they led an activity exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Among them was Jacob, a diocesan young leader, who has presented at the conference for the past four years. Talking about the event, he said: “Coming back each year, I’ve seen how much people want to make a difference.
“What matters is giving young people a real voice and helping everyone find a practical step they can take in their own church and community.”
Speakers included Dr Ruth Valerio, Canon Theologian at Rochester Cathedral, who is credited with starting during her time at . Drawing on her new book, ‘How to Survive a World in Crisis’, she spoke about how we keep going in the face of the environmental crisis.
Peter Kettle, Volunteer Coordinator of the , spoke about the effects of climate change on food production in Rochester’s companion dioceses in Africa. He shared how small, sustainable projects supported by the appeal are benefiting communities.
Attendees also heard from Ecclesiastical Insurance about managing risks linked to extreme weather and insuring new net zero technologies.
Reflecting on the event, Cat Jamieson, Net Zero Programme Manager, said: “When so many people come out and show they care and want to do something to look after the world, it gives me such hope for our future.
“It was also particularly important for us to have young people involved in leading the event and their words were delivered beautifully and impactfully."
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