Chandlers Ford Methodist Church becomes a "Science Dome"

On Saturday 18 April Chandlers Ford Methodist Church became a "Science Dome".

The sanctuary was transformed as chairs were moved and a large blue inflatable dome was set up in the centre.

The event was part of the Winchester, Eastleigh and Romsey Circuit’s ‘Caring for our Planet’ community day. About 18 months in the planning, the day was a way to gather with the local community and think about how we care for our world, at the same time as celebrating nature and having fun together.

The Science dome showed films throughout the day and around two hundred people enjoyed films about our ‘Dynamic Earth’ and ‘The Sea.’ The dome was fully accessible and enjoyed by all ages – with chairs provided for those who couldn’t sit on the floor!

There were lots of things to do during the day. For younger visitors, the Bee Crafty zone provided eco-friendly craft activities. In the marketplace, local and national groups, including the local refillery and repair café, helped visitors to think about actions we can take to care for our world, from rewilding gardens, encouraging diversity, and advice on how to navigate solar panels and making our homes more energy-efficient.

A top tips board gave everyone the opportunity to share their top suggestions too. In the seminar room, Ruth Valerio (from Embrace the Middle East) talked about why we need to care for our planet and Steve Collins (Net Zero Carbon, Church of England) explored how we can do this. In the afternoon Helen Stephens (A Rocha) and Jo Crocker (from Winchester Action on Climate Change) joined the Q&A panel. In the quiet zone, prayer stations were set up on the theme of creation.

The refreshments raised £660 to go towards the work of A Rocha and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The circuit churches followed the day with Sunday worship thinking about climate change and how we can care for creation.

The event was inspired by the Revd Kate Cambridge, Circuit Minister, "The day came about because I was at 3Generate and they had a 'Science Dome' there. I thought it was inspiring and helped the young people to think about the wonder of our world and also how important it is to us to care for it.

"We all want to care for our planet, the Methodist Church is working towards Net Zero and we know we are in a climate emergency, but it can feel difficult and overwhelming. I thought it would be good to put on a day across the circuit and community which would be fun and interactive, and help us all to learn what we can do to make a difference.

"As something many people are passionate about, I also thought it was a good thing to do together with the wider community. It is good to work together and also helps show people that the church cares about the environment too!"