CHELMSFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY The heavens are yours, the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it – you have founded them. Psalm 89:11 What are we called to do? The calling of the Methodist Church is to respond to the gospel of God’s love in Christ and to live out its discipleship in worship and mission. Caring for creation is one of the ways we as churches, can share God’s love with others, challenge injustice and help people in our own communities and beyond.
In 2019 the Methodist Conference recognised that we are facing a climate emergency. Chelmsford Circuit Aims for the next year (2021):
• 50% of churches registered as ECO Churches.
• Implement training for local preachers and worship leaders to inspire and assist them address environmental concerns in worship either through – one off or regular inputs to worship.
• Create a Circuit ECO Committee/team comprising one representative from each church and a Circuit Steward responsible for Circuit environmental issues to look at practical eco steps, grants available etc
• Establish an annual Circuit ECO Sunday.
• Every Church Council to include ‘Caring for God’s Creation’ as an agenda item on every Church Council.
• Each Church to debate divestment from fossil fuels in addition to a Circuit debate on divestment.
• Encourage all churches to share what environmental steps they are taking in Church and Circuit magazines/websites and social media. How we will support one another to do this:
• Pray • Support will be given to the Circuit Environmental Group comprising a representative from each church.
• Draw on other organisations such as Operation Noah, Methodist Zero Carbon Group, District resources and A Rocha.
• Set up a circuit social media group to share questions and offer support.