Bino Teboho Makhalanyane

The Mothers’ Union of the Drakensberg Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Mthatha continues to demonstrate faith in action through meaningful community engagement. In partnership with the Eastern Cape Legislature, Old Mutual, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Elundini Local Municipality, Traditional Leaders, and Magwaxaza Primary School, members gathered for a day of advocacy, environmental action, and practical support for learners. The initiative focused on raising awareness around social and environmental responsibility while also responding to the immediate needs of the school community. Learners received much-needed shoes, sanitary towels, and toiletries, restoring dignity and offering tangible care. As part of the environmental commitment, five White Stinkwood trees were planted on the school grounds, symbolising growth, restoration, and a shared responsibility to care for creation. This partnership reflects the Mothers’ Union’s ongoing mission to serve communities holistically, nurturing both people and the planet.

On Monday, 22 February 2026, Mothers’ Union branches from the Archdeaconries of Riversdale, George, and Knysna in the Diocese of George gathered in their respective parishes to discuss the “Carbon for Lent: Fast for the Earth” campaign under the theme Restoration 2026. Members reflected on the importance of intentional lifestyle changes and explored ideas from the 40-day calendar of activities designed to promote sustainable living. As part of the 40-day fast, members observed Meat-Free Monday by sharing a nourishing plant-based meal together. Recipes were exchanged, demonstrating that simple dietary changes can be both joyful and impactful. This shared meal symbolised our collective commitment to caring for creation through our daily choices. The gatherings affirmed that environmental stewardship is not separate from our faith, but rather an expression of our love for God, our neighbours, and future generations.

On Thursday, 5 February 2026, members of the Mothers’ Union, together with the Anglican Women’s Fellowship from the Mission District of Orange Farm and Palm Springs in the Diocese of Christ the King, officially launched their environmental campaign under the theme “Serve the Earth, Serve the Lord” (Genesis 2:15). The launch was marked by a community clean-up campaign held in Orange Farm Extension 1, demonstrating the organisation’s shared commitment to caring for God’s creation while serving their local community. The initiative aimed to promote environmental stewardship, encourage responsible waste management, and inspire residents to take pride in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. The women were supported by PikitUp, whose partnership played a significant role in ensuring the success of the clean-up effort. Their collaboration highlighted the importance of working together across organisations and institutions to address environmental challenges affecting communities. Despite the scorching heat, the participants remained dedicated and enthusiastic, reflecting their deep sense of service and faith-driven commitment to protecting the environment. The campaign will continue with its second phase, planned to take place in Finetown soon, further expanding its reach and impact.

On Saturday, 31 January, the Diocese of the Free State hosted its Diocesan Chaplains Ministerial Conference at St Thomas Church in Botshabelo, Free State. The Diocesan Green Anglicans were represented by Eco-Champions Dr Shago, Odireleng Sepato, and Mogorosi Molisapoli. As part of the conference programme, a tree was planted, symbolising the Church’s commitment to environmental stewardship and care for creation. Dr Shago (GFS South Africa President) delivered a presentation highlighting the numerous environmental, social, and spiritual benefits of trees, along with practical guidance on their management and sustainability. She emphasised that tree planting serves as both a practical and symbolic response to the growing environmental crisis, encouraging faith communities to actively participate in caring for the natural environment. The Eco-Champions further reflected on the resilience of trees, drawing parallels between their strength and endurance and the steadfastness of human faith. They encouraged chaplains to integrate environmental awareness into their ministry, recognising creation care as an essential expression of Christian witness.  

On Saturday, 24 January 2026, the Diocesan Mothers’ Union in the Diocese of Pretoria held its first meeting of the year, placing strong emphasis on environmental awareness and action. During the meeting, the Mothers’ Union Eco-Champion, Mme Nomathemba Makam, presented the Annual Eco-Champ Report and led discussions on key environmental issues affecting communities and parishes across the diocese. As a practical expression of commitment to environmental care, 150 spekboom plants were distributed to participants, and reflections were shared on how planting and nurturing indigenous trees contribute to climate resilience and to care for God’s creation. Mme Makam expressed hope that the information shared during the meeting would reach all parishes in the diocese and inspire Mothers’ Union members to take active steps to safeguard the environment in their homes, churches, and communities.

In line with Canon 20(2)(e) of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, which outlines the duties of lay ministers as advancing the Anglican Communion’s Marks of Mission, a formative session on the Fifth Mark of Mission was held in the Diocese of Christ the King.On Tuesday, 20 January 2026, the Diocesan Green Anglicans Coordinator, the Ven. Mpho Mohale facilitated a session on the Fifth Mark of Mission, “to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth, “ for six young people currently undergoing training as lay ministers.The session explored the theological and practical dimensions of environmental stewardship within parish life, encouraging participants to reflect on their role as lay ministers in caring for God’s creation. The trainees were highly receptive and left the session inspired to return to their parishes with practical ideas on how local churches can become better stewards of the environment.This engagement affirmed the importance of integrating environmental care into lay ministry formation, ensuring that the Marks of Mission are lived out in both faith and action across the diocese. By: Ven. Mohale ( Diocesan Green Anglicans Coordinator)