Care for Creation
"God said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air and every living thing that moves upon the earth" Genesis 1.28
As Christians we have a God-given responsibility for the care and well-being of all creation. In our journey as The Six towards Eco-Church status we are encouraged to pray for the care of God's Creation. The following prayer resource here from Green Christian, day by day each month, provides a valuable means to do so.
Five of our churches - St Michael's Hartlip, St Margaret's Lower Halstow, St Mary Magdalene Stockbury, St Mary's Upchurch and All Saints Iwade - have achieved Bronze Eco Church Awards, and are working towards silver. St Mary's Newington has achieved a Silver Award.
Season of Creation: 1 September – 4 October
The Season of Creation is a special time in the Church year when Christians around the world unite in prayer and action for the care of our common home. Running from 1 September to 4 October (the Feast of St Francis of Assisi), this season invites us to renew our relationship with God as Creator, to celebrate the wonder of the natural world, and to reflect on our calling to be good stewards of the earth.
Across The Six Benefice, we will be joining this global movement with specially adapted services, prayers, and reflections that open our hearts to the beauty—and the fragility—of creation. In a world facing climate crisis, ecological loss, and human suffering, the Season of Creation is a time for hope, repentance, and restoration.
As we gather in worship, walk in nature, and explore Scripture, we are reminded that the earth is not simply a backdrop to our lives, but a gift entrusted to our care. Together, let us listen to the voice of creation and respond with love, gratitude, and courage.
This season invites us to slow down, notice the goodness of creation, and remember that “the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). It’s a chance to delight in the gifts of land, sea, and sky – and also to consider how we might live more gently and gratefully within them.
Throughout September, we are encouraging everyone in The Six to take a few moments each day to engage with the Bible and reflect on how God speaks through His creation. A simple, prayerful reading can open our eyes to His presence and inspire us to care more deeply for the world He has entrusted to us.
A series of short daily reflections for the Season of Creation is available on request. These include scripture readings, a thought for the day, and a short prayer – perfect for quiet moments at home, in the garden, or while out walking.
If you would like to receive a copy, please contact your churchwarden, Rev. Amanda, or George Hulme.