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.
The Diocese of Canterbury has seen a record number of churches (88%) give their time to complete the energy footprint tool, and so many have taken action towards improving their energy efficiency and decarbonising their buildings – whether that's through having an independent energy audit and utilising available funding including the Boiler Replacement Hardship Grant and the Net Zero Quick Wins grant.
Watch the 'thank you' message from Kayleigh Ward, Net Zero Advisor for Rochester Diocese
Our Diocesan Environmental Officer, Joyce Addison, reflected on how inspiring it was to hear from the younger voices at the conference.
Aiden reminded us: “We have taken so much from the world that we need to give some of it back now.”
When asked what gives her hope, Melanie from the Young Voices panel shared: “Despite many churches and people talking about climate change, there are still quite a few people stuck in their old ways and it’s hard to watch. But being here and having this conference gives me hope because there are people out there who actually know, who are from the older generation and want to change and make sure their children and their children to come have the right opportunities.”
Joyce noted how moving it was to hear this hope expressed so clearly, and how encouraging it is to see younger and older generations working side by side for change.
"We are excited to continue building on this progress together, across generations, across dioceses, to make a significant impact in caring for creation and ensuring a sustainable future for all.".
Watch the video from the ‘Celebrating Creation Care’ Eco Conference 2025