In October, the first-ever joint Eco Conference between the Dioceses of Canterbury and Rochester took place.
Hosted at St Luke’s Church, Maidstone, our Net Zero Demonstrator Church led by example, with its warm, welcoming space heated by a new infrared system powered by recently installed solar PV panels.
The event brought together over 80 attendees (in person and online) from both dioceses for a morning of listening, learning, and connecting around the shared commitment to caring for God’s creation.
Contributions came from two A Rocha Eco Church Gold Award churches, St Mary’s, Smeeth, and The Holy Redeemer, Lamorbey, who offered practical inspiration for what is possible when sustainability becomes a core part of mission.
Representatives of both Canterbury and Rochester Cathedrals spoke about the unique role cathedrals can play as centres of heritage and influence, and the Next Gen youth group from St Martin's Church, Maidstone, led prayers and shared their hopes and concerns for the future of the planet.
Watch the 'thank you' message from Kayleigh Ward, Net Zero Advisor for Rochester Diocese
Kayleigh Ward, Net Zero Advisor for Rochester Diocese, said:
“The enthusiasm with which all these opportunities have been taken up by churches is so encouraging, and so we want to thank every parish for their commitment, and we look forward to continuing to support them on their Net Zero journeys.”
Watch the video from the ‘Celebrating Creation Care’ Eco Conference 2025