Many of the 14 registered Eco Churches in Stokesley Deanery were represented at the Deanery’s second Annual Environment Service, prepared by Authorised Lay Minister Linda Wells and held outdoors at St Francis, Ingleby Barwick on Sunday September 15th.
‘Dean of Green’ the Revd Geoff Jaques reports, “The Revd Brenda Forrester welcomed everyone and thanked all who gave their time to Care for God’s Creation – especially those from our three Silver Award Eco Churches.”
Geoff Jaques gave the address, reminding everyone that one of the five Marks of Mission of the Anglican church is “To strive to Safeguard the integrity of Creation, and sustain and renew the Life of the Earth”.
We should all “Use our LOAF and bear fruit,” he added, explaining the acronym means to buy Local, Organic, Animal friendly, and Fairtrade.
“When we held our 2023 service in All Saints’ churchyard, Great Ayton, there were no Silver Eco Churches in Stokesley Deanery,” said Geoff. “The Deanery now has three of the 11 currently awarded by A Rocha in the Diocese of York!”
A detailed record of St Francis’ Eco journey to date and its plans for the future was on display over refreshments afterwards.
