The Yorkshire West Methodist District is celebrating a significant milestone in its journey towards environmental stewardship, having been awarded the A Rocha Bronze Eco District Award! This achievement is a testament to the dedication, commitment, and hard work of our churches and circuits in striving towards net zero carbon emissions and embedding sustainable practices into their communities.
The journey towards this recognition has been inspired by a shared commitment across the District to respond to the climate crisis with urgency and hope. Key achievements recognised in our award include having 73 churches in our District (45%) registered as eco-churches, with 43 of those having already received awards; strong communication and knowledge sharing, with regular eco-focused features in the District newsletter and a dedicated climate change web page; commitments by churches to conduct energy audits; the creation of climate change resources; and simple wins such as demonstrating practical land stewardship by introducing pollinator-friendly planters to paved areas.
“We recognise the call of God upon us all to share in God’s love and care for all creation. As human beings we have often been pre-disposed to only take what we can from what God has given, rather than celebrating that it is indeed a gift and one we should treat as precious. This award is just one step on our journey to love all that God has made in a way that resonates truly with the heart of God”, shared Revd Kerry Tankard, Chair of the Yorkshire West Methodist District.
The Bronze Eco District Award recognises the collective efforts of churches and circuits that have committed to and achieved Eco Church Awards and Eco Circuit Awards, demonstrating a District-wide commitment to environmental care and sustainability. This achievement has only been possible because of the practical actions taken by local congregations – from improving energy efficiency in buildings, switching to renewable energy sources, engaging in climate-conscious worship and teaching, and implementing sustainable land management and waste reduction practices.
“There are many priorities to juggle in the life of the church, with resources and capacity stretched,” recognises David Craig, Missional Property Enabler for the Yorkshire West Methodist District. “It’s a remarkable effort by those people caring for creation among everything else, which this award celebrates.”
While this award is an exciting milestone, it is not the final destination. The Yorkshire West Methodist District remains committed to its carbon reduction journey, ensuring that our places of worship, manses and community spaces continue to reflect God’s call to care for creation. Churches and circuits are encouraged to continue their progress by working towards Bronze, Silver and Gold Eco Awards, as well as Circuit Eco Awards; continuing to conduct energy audits; exploring funding opportunities for sustainable upgrades; and highlighting the role of churches in restoration of nature.
This award belongs to all those who have played a role in making this happen—from ministers and property stewards to church members and volunteers who have championed sustainable initiatives. It is a recognition of faith in action, and a clear message that together, we are making a difference.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to this journey. Let’s keep striving forward – towards a more sustainable future for all!
David Craig
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