News

Lent is traditionally a time when we abstain from items such as alcohol or chocolates. This year we invite you to abstain from things which harm the planet  – and to be part of renewing the Earth “Restoration 202fix!”

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) 

On Sunday, 25 January 2026, just before the Diocese of Mthatha St Bernard Mizeki Rededication Service, a palm tree was planted at Holy Nativity Parish by the Diocesan Bishop, the Rt Revd J. T. Ngombane. The occasion was attended by the Diocesan Dean, the Very Revd M. Mdunyelwa; the Diocesan President of the Bernard Mizeki Men’s Guild, the Ven. N. Dumisa, the Chaplain, the Revd T. Mehlo, the Rector of Holy Nativity Parish, the Revd G. Yekani, the Bernard Mizeki Social Responsibility Officer, Bro. B. White; members of DEXCO; and the wider congregation. During the service, the Ven. Dumisa reminded those present that the 2025 Diocesan Conference of the Bernard Mizeki Men’s Guild resolved to establish programmes for environmental care. In line with this resolution, every Rededication Service and Conference will now include an environmental activity, led by the Social Responsibility Officer, Bro. White, who also serves as a Diocesan Green Anglicans Coordinator.