Bino Teboho Makhalanyane

The Diocese of Kimberley and Kuruman Environmental Ministry hosted its annual Eco Champions Consultation Weekend from 26–28 June 2026 at the Parish of the Resurrection in Mmabatho. Held under the inspiring theme, “Plant the Change You Want to See,” the consultation brought together Environmental Ministry representatives from parishes and guilds across the diocese for a weekend of worship, learning, fellowship, leadership development, and practical environmental action. Coordinated by the Revd. Tshenolo Hove, with support from Ordinand Kaone Gaetsewe and Media Officer Remotshepile Ngwenya, the gathering reflected the Diocese’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship as an expression of Christian faith. The consultation opened on Friday evening with a service of Evening Prayer, grounding the weekend in worship and reminding participants that caring for creation is an integral part of God’s mission. The evening continued with a lively Environmental Beauty Pageant, where participants celebrated sustainability by showcasing Traditional Wear, Semi-Formal Wear, and Creative Recycled Wear. The event highlighted the importance of reusing and repurposing materials while demonstrating that environmental awareness can be expressed creatively. The evening concluded with the crowning of the Environmental Ministry ambassadors. Miss Environmental Ministry 2026 was awarded to Letlotlo Gaetsewe from St Michael’s and All Angels, while Onolo Itumeleng from St Paul, Mothibistad, was crowned Mr Environmental Ministry 2026. The first day ended with prayer and thanksgiving. Saturday focused on faith, education, and creativity. Delegates participated in a scripture-based team-building activity that reinforced the biblical call to care for creation while strengthening relationships among participants. A conservation session presented by Pangolin Africa introduced delegates to the importance of protecting pangolins, one of Africa’s most endangered mammals, highlighting the urgent need to preserve biodiversity and protect vulnerable species. In a symbolic act of hope and renewal, delegates enjoyed fresh naartjies before planting the seeds, reminding everyone that even the smallest actions can grow into lasting environmental change. Participants also took part in a community vision drawing exercise, creatively expressing their dreams for cleaner neighbourhoods, environmental justice, empowered young people, and united communities working together to care for creation. The day concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating the creativity, leadership, and dedication shown throughout the consultation, followed by Evening Prayer and fellowship over supper. Sunday’s programme centred on worship and putting faith into action. During the Holy Eucharist, the sermon reflected on the consultation theme, “Plant the Change You Want to See,” encouraging the congregation to take intentional steps towards protecting God’s creation and becoming faithful stewards of the environment. Following the service, Eco Champions shared their message with the wider congregation by distributing naartjie seeds as a symbol of hope, growth, and environmental responsibility. Delegates also sold Green Anglicans pins and bookmarks to promote environmental awareness and encourage others to become part of the growing Green Anglicans movement. Over lunch, participants reflected on the successes of the weekend and discussed upcoming environmental initiatives within the Diocese. These conversations reaffirmed the commitment of the Eco Champions to continue strengthening environmental ministry within their local parishes and communities. The next Eco Champions Consultation is scheduled to take place from 12–14 February 2027 at the Molopo Archdeaconry, where participants will once again gather to share experiences, deepen their faith, and strengthen their environmental mission. The Eco Champions Consultation Weekend was a powerful reminder that faith and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Through worship, learning, creativity, and practical action, delegates left inspired to become ambassadors for creation care within their churches and communities. As they return home carrying both seeds and renewed purpose, they continue to embody the consultation’s message: to plant the change they wish to see, nurturing hope for both people and the planet. Special thanks to Ven Raymond Holele, Revd Mpho Chaane and the wardens for welcoming the Eco-Champions to Mahikeng and the Church of the Resurrection Article by Eco Champions : Malebogo Loeto (St John’s, Bothithong) & Palesa Leeto (St Timothy’s, Seoding)

The Anglican Students’ Federation of Southern Africa (ASF) hosted its annual conference at St Bede’s Diocesan Centre in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, from 28 June to 3 July 2026. Students from across Southern Africa gathered for a week of worship, fellowship, leadership development, and renewed commitment to mission.Living out the Anglican Communion’s Fifth Mark of Mission, “To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, sustain and renew the life of the earth,” the conference was intentionally declared paperless and styrofoam-free. Working closely with the Diocese of Mthatha’s catering team, the provincial executive committee ensured that no single-use plastic utensils were used throughout the conference, demonstrating that environmental stewardship can be integrated into every aspect of church life.In keeping with ASF tradition, Tuesday was dedicated to Caring for Creation. The day began with a meaningful Care for Creation Eucharist led by Revd Thembile Manene from the Gauteng Region, reminding delegates that caring for creation is an act of worship and faithful discipleship.The Eucharist was followed by interactive presentations and activities facilitated by Mr Bonginkosi White, Diocesan Green Anglicans Coordinator, and Bino Makhalanyane, Green Anglicans Youth Coordinator. Bonginkosi challenged ANSOC members not to limit their environmental commitment to conference gatherings but to embody the Fifth Mark of Mission on their campuses, in student residences, and within their local Anglican Student Organisations (ANSOCs). Bino led an engaging session on eco-spirituality, encouraging delegates to deepen their relationship with God through the care of creation and to recognise environmental stewardship as an essential expression of Christian faith.Delegates then participated in a range of creative learning activities, including an environmental crossword challenge, drama performances, poetry, and artistic presentations centred on caring for creation. These activities not only demonstrated the students’ understanding of environmental stewardship but also inspired practical, innovative, and enjoyable ways to address environmental challenges within their communities.The conference concluded with the adoption of two significant environmental resolutions, reaffirming ASF’s commitment to climate justice and ecological stewardship.Resolution 15/2026: Arise to Care for God’s CreationRecognising that creation belongs to God and that humanity has been entrusted with its care, delegates resolved to make environmental stewardship an integral part of ASF’s witness and ministry.Resolution 16/2026: Practical Climate ActionAcknowledging the increasing impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, delegates resolved to encourage practical environmental action across all ASF chapters.To give effect to these resolutions, the conference committed to the following actions:• Plant at least three trees at every Provincial and Regional Conference.• Establish Eco-Clubs within ANSOCs.• Organise campus and community clean-up campaigns.• Promote recycling and sustainable lifestyles.• Develop food gardens wherever possible to strengthen food security and resilience.These resolutions reflect ASF’s growing commitment to integrating faith, environmental stewardship, and climate justice into its ministry, ensuring that young Anglicans become active custodians of God’s creation both on campus and in their communities.Green Anglicans extends its sincere appreciation to Mr Siyabonga Mthethwa and the outgoing ASF Executive Committee for their steadfast commitment to caring for creation throughout their term of office. We also congratulate the newly elected Executive Committee, led by Refilwe Ferrelson, an Eco-Champion whose leadership promises to further strengthen ASF’s environmental witness across Southern Africa.As ASF moves forward, these commitments demonstrate that caring for creation is not simply an activity but an essential part of the Church’s mission, empowering young Anglicans to become faithful stewards of God’s creation and agents of hope for a more just and sustainable future. Edited by: Galaletsang Choane (Outgoing ASF MPO)

The Girls’ and Boys’ Friendly Society (GBFS) of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa (ACSA) hosted its Provincial Conference from 26–28 June 2026 at the Shingrila Hotel in Limpopo under the theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Past Achievements and Future Goals.” The conference brought together GBFS members from across the province to reflect on their journey, strengthen fellowship, and prepare young people for the future. As part of the programme, Green Anglicans Youth Coordinator, Bino Makhalanyane, was invited to facilitate a session on Curbing Climate Change, equipping delegates with a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and the role of young Christians in responding to it. During his presentation, Bino highlighted how climate change and environmental degradation continue to impact the world’s most vulnerable communities first and most severely. He explained that rural communities, women, children, and those living in poverty often bear the greatest burden through increased food insecurity, disruptions to education, loss of livelihoods, and climate-related disasters that threaten their future. Drawing on Isaiah 1:17 “Learn to do good; seek justice. Defend the oppressed” he challenged delegates to see climate action as both a matter of justice and an expression of Christian discipleship. Participants were encouraged to build on the achievements of previous generations by implementing practical climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives within their churches and communities. These actions, he noted, are essential for building resilience and safeguarding God’s creation for future generations. The conference also heard from Dr Shago, GBFS National President, who encouraged young people to focus on four interconnected pillars: Land, Air, Water, and Livelihoods. She emphasised that caring for the land is essential because it sustains food production, while protecting water is vital not only for human survival but also for its spiritual significance. She reminded delegates that clean air is fundamental to life and that safeguarding these natural resources is inseparable from protecting people’s livelihoods. By caring for creation, she said, young people contribute to healthier communities and greater resilience in the face of climate change. We wish to congratulate the Diocese of Lesotho GBFS, which will host the next ACSA GBFS Presidency.

On Saturday, 13 June 2026, members of the Girls’ and Boys’ Friendly Society (GBFS) from various parishes across Cape Town gathered at Cyprian in Langa for a day of fellowship, learning, and youth empowerment. The event brought together young people in a spirit of unity and friendship through a variety of team-building activities, discussions, and games. Participants had the opportunity to strengthen relationships, develop teamwork skills, and celebrate the diverse talents within the GBFS family. The activities highlighted the importance of respect, collaboration, and supporting one another as young leaders within the Church and their communities. As part of the programme, participants engaged with the Green Anglicans 2026 World Environment Day Bible Study resource based on Matthew 9:18–26. Through reflection and group discussions, young people explored the connection between faith, environmental stewardship, and climate justice. The sessions inspired participants to develop practical action plans that will be implemented in their parishes and communities between July and October 2026. The gathering not only strengthened fellowship among GBFS members but also encouraged youth to become active agents of change in responding to environmental challenges. By combining the GBFS motto with practical planning, the event demonstrated the important role young people can play in advancing climate justice and caring for creation. A special word of appreciation goes to the Green Anglicans team, the Claremont Rotary Club, the Church Council of St Cyprians, and the participants whose contributions made the day a memorable and meaningful success. By: Lisakhanya Magade  

On 14 May 2026, Climate YES Eswatini hosted a Climate Justice Advocacy Indaba at the Community Hall, Ezulwini Royal Kraal, bringing together 23 young leaders from the Anglican Church, the Council of Eswatini Churches, the Conference of Churches, and the League of Churches. The Indaba aimed to equip faith-based youth with knowledge and tools for climate justice advocacy while developing a shared response to environmental challenges facing Ezulwini. Climate YES Eswatini members presented on the organisation’s work, the current environmental situation in Eswatini, and the role of faith-based youth in promoting stewardship and climate justice, while members of the Green Anglicans highlighted their efforts to integrate eco-theology into sermons, adopt free use of single-use plastic practices, and participate in national climate justice marches. Participants also reflected on biblical teachings such as Genesis 2:15 and Psalm 24:1, emphasising the responsibility to care for creation. These discussions highlighted concerns about littering, illegal dumping, and inadequate waste management services in Ezulwini, with participants agreeing that urgent action is needed. Several resolutions emerged from the gathering, including climate justice awareness campaigns in local churches, advocacy for stronger bylaws against littering and illegal dumping, and increased youth participation in policy processes. Mr Maziva, Chairperson of the Community Development Committee, is committed to monthly clean-up campaigns from June 2026 and pledged to support the establishment of a Community Environment Day in August 2026. The Eswatini National Youth Council is also committed to including Climate YES Eswatini in Youth Parliament initiatives. The Indaba successfully trained and mobilised 23 faith-based youth leaders, strengthened collaboration among churches, and secured support from local leadership for future environmental action. Climate YES Eswatini expressed gratitude to all partners and participants for their commitment to climate justice, stewardship, and creation care. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” (Psalm 24:1)

On 29 May 2026, St. Cyprian Anglican Church in Tsumeb, Namibia, successfully conducted an Environmental Cleaning Campaign involving Confirmation Candidates, church members, and leaders. The campaign took place on the church’s premises and in a nearby public park, demonstrating the church’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community responsibility. The primary purpose of the campaign was to promote environmental awareness among young people while encouraging active participation in community service. Through this initiative, participants were given the opportunity to put their faith into action by caring for God’s creation and contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment for both the church community and the wider public. During the clean-up, participants collected litter and waste from around the church grounds, cleaned pathways and open spaces, and removed plastic waste, paper, bottles, and other rubbish from the nearby public park. In addition to practical cleaning activities, participants were encouraged to adopt proper waste-disposal practices and to become ambassadors for environmental conservation within their communities. Discussions were also held on the importance of maintaining clean public spaces and protecting the environment for future generations. The campaign produced several positive outcomes. The church surroundings and the nearby park were left significantly cleaner, creating a more welcoming and attractive environment for community members and visitors. Participants gained valuable hands-on experience in community service and environmental care, while also learning about the impact of pollution and the importance of cleanliness in protecting public health and the natural environment. Furthermore, the activity strengthened teamwork, responsibility, and community involvement among the confirmation candidates. By working together toward a common goal, participants developed a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship and the role everyone can play in caring for creation. The organisers were grateful for the generous support received from community members who provided sufficient food and refreshments for all participants. However, one challenge encountered during the campaign was the shortage of protective gloves. Future campaigns would benefit from additional resources and support to ensure that all participants are adequately equipped. Overall, the clean-up campaign was a successful initiative that not only improved the cleanliness of the church and park areas but also educated participants about the importance of environmental stewardship. The activity made a positive contribution to the community and encouraged ongoing efforts to maintain a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. By : Revd Rakkel T.T Kafidi