When the congregation at URC Hoole in Chester gathered to discuss how best to heat their busy community spaces, the conversation turned to sustainability, practicality, and cost. Their main hall, a hub for post‑service tea and coffee and a welcoming venue for local groups, was in need of a solution that balanced comfort with responsibility.

Our theme at the March Synod Meeting, held at Trinity URC Wigan, was ‘Talking Faith, Talking Creation’ and we looked at how faith informs our approach and attitude to the environment. We also celebrated the news that URC Mersey Synod has achieved both the Bronze Eco Synod Award and the Bronze Eco Church Award Certificate.

The Season of Creation is a time to renew our relationship with our Creator and all creation through celebration, conversion, and commitment together. During the Season of Creation, we join our sisters and brothers in the ecumenical family in prayer and action for our common home.

There are now 12 churches in the Mersey Synod area registered for the Eco Church awards. Seven of the churches have achieved a Bronze award and one a Silver award.