Silver Eco Church Award for St Peter's

St Peter's Church is very pleased to announce that they have been given a Silver Eco Church Award by A Rocha UK.

Eco Church is a scheme for churches of all denominations in England and Wales. Churches can show that they care for creation as an integral part of loving their neighbours and following God.

The beauty of the A Rocha Eco Church surveys are that they help a congregation work through different areas of church life and look at how the decisions made and actions taken, effect the environment and their local community.

The survey looks at five areas, worship and teaching, buildings, land, engagement with the local community/global campaigns and the personal lifestyles of the congregation.

St Peter's journey had already begun before the PCC (Parochial Church Council), formally agreed to join the programme in December 2017. Church members were already conscious of their impact on the environment and many steps had been taken to care for God's creation in our church life.

Some of the things that have happened in the last year include:-

Our Lent Bible Study course, 'God Creation and Us.'

The church  working with Belper Transition to show important documentaries such as, 'Tomorrow' and 'A Plastic Ocean.'

A visit from Kids Against Plastic to our Young People's Group.

As part of Belper Churches Together and as individuals taking an active part in Belper Goes Green.

The construction of three raised beds for community fruit and vegetable growing with an Opening event in June 2018.

Areas of the churchyard managed for wildlife with advice being given by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.

Working with Belper Town Council for Belper in Bloom and in a very small way helping the town achieve a Gold Award.