In different ways, the Methodist Church in Britain has partnered, or promotes, a number of organisations that encourage Christians to engage with ecological issues and to relate issues around climate and creation to faith. One key initiative, supported by the ecumenical Joint Public Issues Team, is the Eco Church award scheme coordinated by A Rocha UK.
Eco Church is an A Rocha UK award scheme for churches in England and Wales “who want to demonstrate that the gospel is good news for God’s earth”. For those in Scotland, there is a sister organisation, Eco Congregation Scotland.
Awards (bronze, silver and gold) are given to local churches dependent on a range of criteria: how you -
- express your care for God’s world in your worship and teaching
- look after your buildings and land
- engage with your local community and in global campaign
- reflect eco-sensitive values in the personal lifestyles of your congregation
Progress
At the end of 2017, around 100 Methodist churches had registered an interest in Eco Church and 15 had applied for an award. By the middle of 2025, Eco Church Bronze Award alone had been achieved by nearly 450 Methodist churches. A further 179 churches had gained Silver, and 14 Gold. Circuit and District awards are also available.
Eco Church provides a list of worship, preaching and study resources to support those involved in leading services, and other activities.
Many other organisations also provide useful resources. Further suggestions and links can be found on our Climate and Creation theology resources page.