The Thames North Synod held an ‘Eco Day’ on Saturday 8th June. This was the second such event: the first was held a year ago at Cores End URC, in a beautiful rural context. This year was at the Vine URC in Ilford, just off a bustling high street. Quite a contrast, but both churches are doing impressive things with their premises to reflect the Christian concern for the misuse of God’s creation.
Although Ilford is on the other side of London, the Elizabeth Line made it very straightforward for a group of us to get there from Ealing.
Among the musical aspects of the day, members of the St Andrew’s band made our characteristic contributions to acts of worship, including some ‘eco hymns’ that we’d like to lead in one of our own services sometime soon.
The keynote speaker was Jeremy Williams, talking about his book Climate change is racist, which we studied at the green book group last year. Christian Aid, Christian Climate Action, and other groups were represented, and there was useful input from within the Synod. Altogether, an interesting, challenging, and enjoyable day.
Roo Stewart, the URC’s Head of Public Issues, wrote of the day:
‘I was at the Thames North green day on Saturday and it was epic. Well attended with people from all over the synod, with opportunities for children and young people, a wonderful feast of worship, talks, workshops and some sumptuous lunch that conformed as much as possible to LOAF principles.’
We hope that there will be another such Synod event next year, and I would encourage everyone to attend!
Peter Skerratt
