John-Paul Roberts

YPM & Green Anglicans Hike 2025

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The Young Peoples’ Ministry Council together with Green Anglicans held a hike from Cecilia Forest to Kirstenbosch Gardens onSaturday 15 March 2025. During the hike, we were reminded ofour uniqueness and the significance of being different as childrenof God. The highlight for me was at the end of the hike, when oneyoung person reflected “today taught me that in life we all moveat different paces towards the same goal”. We thank God, parentsand parishes that ensured that the hike was a success and praythat more young people can join us in future. JP Roberts from the Green Anglicans team and rep on the Diocesan YPM committee led the group in a devotion by the waterfall on Psalm 19:1, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands”, challenging the young people to see God in the nature that they were in. To see, hear and smell how nature glorifies God, and do we see God’s glory in our neighbourhoods. Siphe NyabaYPM Coordinator Diocese of Cape Town

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Diocese of Cape Town Outdoor Family Day

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The Cape Town Diocesan Family Day took place on Transfiguration Sunday, 2nd March 2025 at St George’s Grammar School. Presided by Bishop Joshua Louw and Preacher, Archbishop Thabo Makgoba. A special collection was taken for the Eluvukweni Church Building project. Congregants gathered from across the Diocese to enjoy the outdoor service and to enjoy the great outdoors. Rev Rachel Mash reminded the people of the beaut of Cape Town as were worshipped to the backdrop of Table Mountain. After the service people picniced and braaied as the young people enjoyed some games (soccer, volleyball, and ) and a kids creativity corner, which was organized by the Diocesan YPM committee with the support of the Anglican Youth Fellowship.

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No Foam Zone

Fast for the Earth 2025 / /

And I brought you into a plentiful land to enjoy its fruits and its good things. But when you came in, you defiled my land and made my heritage an abomination. Jeremiah 2: 7 The Hidden Dangers of Expanded Polystyrene (Styrofoam) Expanded polystyrene (EPS), often mistaken for Styrofoam, is everywhere—takeout containers, coffee cups, and packaging. But while it’s cheap, lightweight and convenient, it comes with serious environmental and health risks. It is made from styrene, a chemical linked to health concerns. Long-term exposure to styrene—especially for workers in industries that produce it—has been associated with nervous system issues, headaches, and even potential cancer risks. You must never microwave food in styrofoam because , harmful chemicals can seep into your food, especially if it’s oily or acidic. Over time, consuming these chemicals may have negative effects on your health. Though using a foam cup once won’t harm you, the bigger issue is what happens after you throw it away. It is not biodegradable, meaning it lingers in the environment for hundreds of years. Since it’s easily broken into tiny pieces, it becomes a major source of plastic pollution. Animals often mistake these small bits for food, leading to choking, malnutrition, or even death. Because it is so light, it gets carried by the wind into waterways and oceans, contributing to the global plastic crisis. Recycling is difficult and expensive, so most of it ends up in landfills or as litter. Burning it releases toxic chemicals into the air, further harming the environment. Some cities and countries have started banning styrofoam products, encouraging the use of biodegradable or reusable alternatives. Both the provincial Synod and the Provincial Mothers Union of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa have passed resolutions to ban the use of styrofoam in their Dioceses.

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Spring in Action

Fast for the Earth 2025 / /

John replied, “If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.” – Luke 3:11 Spring Cleaning for a Purpose: Blessing Others & Caring for Creation Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s an opportunity to bless others and care for the environment. As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of what we own. Luke 3:11 reminds us, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” Clearing Out Clothes Sustainably Fashion has a huge environmental impact—fast fashion leads to pollution, wasted water, and massive amounts of clothing ending up in landfills. Instead of letting old clothes gather dust or throwing them away, why not donate them to those in need? Churches, shelters, and thrift stores will make sure your pre-loved clothes get a second life. Choosing to buy quality, second-hand, or sustainable clothing also helps reduce fashion waste. Sharing Food Instead of Wasting It Many people in our communities struggle with hunger, yet so much food goes to waste. As you clean out your kitchen, check for non-perishable food you don’t need and donate it to food banks or community organizations. Instead of throwing away food close to its expiry date, find ways to use it or share it with others. Spring cleaning isn’t just about organizing—it’s about living simply, reducing waste, and being generous. When we give away what we don’t need, we help others, protect the planet, and honor God’s call to care for His creation. Christ Church Constantia in Diocese of Cape Town started a second-hand store that allows people to drop off used items that could be repurchased and the money from the store goes towards outreach ministry within the community.

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4th Sunday in Lent 2025

Fast for the Earth 2025 / /

Genesis 1:29 says, “Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.’” This verse reminds us that food is a gift from God, meant to nourish our bodies and sustain life. But how we eat and cook also affects the environment, our health, and our spirituality. Eating in an Environmentally Friendly Way God created the earth with balance, yet modern food systems often harm creation. Industrial farming, food waste, and plastic packaging pollute the environment. As Christians, we can reduce our impact by choosing local, seasonal foods, eating more plant-based meals, and minimizing waste. When we waste food, we waste God’s blessing. Cooking as an Act of Stewardship Cooking from scratch, using fresh and whole ingredients, respects God’s natural provision. Avoiding highly processed foods and excessive meat consumption reduces our carbon footprint. Using energy-efficient cooking methods, like steaming or slow cooking, also conserves resources. The Spiritual Side of Eating Eating is not just physical; it’s spiritual. Jesus often used meals to bring people together, showing that food is meant to be shared. When we prepare meals with care, express gratitude, and share with those in need, we reflect God’s love. By choosing environmentally friendly ways to eat and cook, we honor God, care for our bodies, and protect creation. Let’s treat food as a sacred gift and use it wisely.

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Eco-Friendly Feasts

Fast for the Earth 2025 / /

Acts 14:17, “The living God… gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. Hosting an Eco-Friendly Event as a Christian As Christians, we are called to care for God’s creation. Genesis 2:15 reminds us that God placed us on Earth to tend and protect it. When planning a big event—whether it’s a church gathering, a wedding, or a birthday party—we should think about how to celebrate without harming the environment.How to Make Your Event Eco-Friendly: Reduce Waste – Instead of plastic plates and cups, use reusable or biodegradable options. If you must use disposables, choose paper or plant-based alternatives. Encourage guests to recycle! Choose Local and Seasonal Food – Buying from local farmers reduces food miles and supports communities. Avoid excess food waste by planning portions carefully and donating leftovers.Ditch Single-Use Plastics – No bottled water! Set up refill stations with jugs of water and encourage guests to bring reusable bottles. Eco-Friendly Décor – Balloons and plastic decorations end up as waste. Try natural decorations like flowers, candles, or fabric banners that can be reused. Sustainable Transportation – Encourage carpooling, biking, or public transport to reduce carbon emissions. By planning with God’s creation in mind, we can host joyful, meaningful gatherings without harming the planet. Small actions—like using less plastic, wasting less food, and choosing sustainable options—can make a big difference. Let’s celebrate responsibly, honoring both God and the Earth He has entrusted to us.The parish of St Paul’s Diocese of George showed us how to run an environmental high tea! As part of our Patronal festival week, our Parish commemorated our Patron Saint, Saint Paul, by hosting a “Environmental High Tea” which was an innovative concept that combines the traditional elegance of high tea with environmental awareness and sustainability. Here’s what it entailed: Key Elements Eco-friendly venue: The high tea was hosted in a venue that prioritizes environmental sustainability, such as our church garden. Locally sourced ingredients: The tea, food, and refreshments were made from locally sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients to minimize carbon footprint. Zero-waste policy: The event produced zero waste by using compostable or biodegradable tableware, linens, and decorations. Sustainable fashion: Guests may be encouraged to wear sustainable, eco-friendly, or second-hand clothing to promote environmentally responsible fashion practices. Benefits and Impact Raises environmental awareness: The event had educate guests about environmental issues and promotes sustainable living practices within and around our parish and community we find ourselves in. Supports local communities: By using locally sourced ingredients and supporting eco-friendly businesses, our parish contributes to the local economy. Fosters community engagement: The Environmental Hig Tea had brought people together to share ideas, experiences, and tips for sustainable living, promoting a sense of community and collaboration. Promotes sustainable lifestyle choices: By showcasing eco-friendly products, services, and practices, the event encourages guests to make more sustainable lifestyle choices.

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