General Synod has welcomed three significant milestones in its response to the climate and nature crises when it met earlier in July. Members considered a major new teaching document from the House of Bishops, approved a new annual Festival of Creation in Christ, and received an update on progress towards the Church's Net Zero Carbon ambitions.
'Hope for all Creation: A Theological Response' was at the heart of the discussions and has been adopted by the House of Bishops. The document sets out a Christian understanding of the environmental crises facing the world. The document argues that care for creation is not an optional concern but a core part of Christian discipleship and mission. Read more about it on the Church of England website.
Synod also gave final approval to a new annual Festival of Creation in Christ, to be celebrated on the first Sunday in September. The new Festival offers an opportunity for Christians to give thanks for God's creation and redemption of the world, reflect on humanity's responsibility to care for the natural world and pray for its renewal. You can download practical guidance for celebrating this new festival from the Church of England website.
The update on Net Zero reported on the progress so far and the next steps needed to support dioceses, churches, cathedrals, schools and clergy housing in caring for God’s creation.
The Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, said climate change remained "arguably the most pressing challenge of our times" and described the Church's net zero carbon ambition as a response rooted in Christian discipleship, justice and care for creation.
"As Christians, we have a duty not just to speak out but also to act and lead by example, in witnessing how we care about God's creation. The ambition has driven change and progress that would not otherwise have happened." The following Impact Report video, which features our Net Zero Adviser, Dan Wills sharing the volume of projects we are involved with, was shared.
The progress report was warmly received by General Synod, with the motion carried overwhelmingly by a show of hands, with only three votes against. During the debate, many Synod members spoke in support of the programme, sharing examples of how their churches and dioceses are working to reduce carbon emissions, and the missional importance of caring for creation. Read more and watch the Synod debate on the Church of England website.
Visit our Environment section to find out more about how we care for creation in Bath and Wells