ST John’s Parish Church in Menston has received a Bronze Eco Church award from A Rocha UK as part of its commitment to improving the environment and combatting climate change.

The award covers areas of life such as the management and maintenance of church buildings and land, engagement with the local community and global environmental campaigns and also the environmental impact of the personal lifestyles within our congregations.

The Vicar of St John’s, the Revd Steve Proudlove, said: “We are rightly proud to receive this award.

“As Christians we firmly believe that God loves his world and so must we.

“Eco Church is just one way of sharing God’s love with our community, by safeguarding our environment for those who come after us.

“This bronze award is a beginning; we intend to work hard to improve our care for the world, and to work with other agencies for the benefit of Menston in many different ways.”

Marilyn Banister, member of the St John’s Outreach team, said: “It is great to be given this award which recognises contributions made by all members of the church family.

“We promote, encourage and cajole by asking people to make small changes in their behaviour which can bring about big changes when all taken together.

“We are looking forward to doing more over the next few months/years to increase awareness of the urgent need for change in order to address the climate emergency.”

There are three levels of Eco Church Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold. In order to qualify for an Award churches must attain the required standard in several areas.

For more information visit https://ecochurch.arocha.org.uk/