On Saturday 8th March, a group from our Ministry Area went to St Teilo’s High School for a Ministry Area Networking Conference. The group included MA Lead Julian Gray, Team Vicar David Roberts, MA Rector’s Warden Jess Graham, MA Safeguarding Officer Mary Heading and School Pioneer Emily Bailey. As an MA, we were asked to put on a display, highlighting the positive things happening in our area. We were given the following display statement:
‘Our care for the environment embodies God’s love for creation which gives us courage to stand against the misuse of the world’s resources. This challenges us with integrity and humility to be conscious of our actions.’
Our display tried to include positive Eco initiatives from across our churches:
- Caring for God’s Creation – Recent Bronze Eco Church Award at St Martin’s Cwmyoy, Solar lighting at Llanvapley.
- Appreciation of nature – Outdoor services held at Llanvapley, Rogation services, Animal services at Llanddewi Rhydderch, Flower Festival at Llanvihangel Crucorney, Birdwatch at Llantilio Crossenny.
- Being good Stewards of the earth – Wild churchyard care plan at Grosmont, Living Churchyard Project at Llantilio Pertholey, use of Fairtrade products and supporting ecologically positive charities.
The display was made more colourful and striking by bold Bible verses from the Sunday school at Grosmont and a globe sculpture and living garden from the Sunday school at Llantilio Pertholey – many thanks to everyone for all their hard work, our display was by far the best!
The morning started with Networking sessions for various groups (wardens, clergy, safeguarding, property leads, etc). This was an opportunity to share in the positive things happening in our area as well as a chance to discuss problems we have been facing and sharing solutions with each other.
After this, we had the opportunity to have a look at the displays of other Ministry Areas and the different ways we are ministering to our communities. This was a really useful way of talking to other MAs about how we are all dealing with these big changes.
There was then an address from Bishop Cherry. She spoke about how encouraged she has been by the positive initiatives she has seen across the Diocese. She particularly stressed the importance of caring for ourselves both as clergy and laity in order for us to better care for others. We also discussed the Diocesan Vision and Culture Guide and how we can implement these better in our areas. The day then ended with lunch and a Eucharist led by the Bishop and curate team.
Many thanks to the Diocese for organising the day and also all those across our Ministry Area for their contributions to our Eco Display.