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On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the Diocesan Servers Guild from the Diocese of Grahamstown gathered at the Cathedral of St Michael and St George to commemorate St Vincent of Saragossa. As part of the celebration, the Diocesan Mothers’ Union donated a tree as a symbol of environmental responsibility and care for creation. The initiative aimed to teach the children and Servers the importance of loving and protecting the earth, nurturing a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship within the life of the Church. Following the service, members of the Servers Guild, together with the Diocesan Bishop, planted the tree within the cathedral grounds. The occasion concluded with the Bishop’s special blessing of the tree, committing the act to God and affirming the Church’s responsibility to safeguard creation.  

On Mothering Sunday (22 February 2026), we, as the Mothers Union from St Dunstan’s Cathedral in Benoni, Diocese of Highveld, took part in a special environmental activity, planting trees and flowers in our Garden of Remembrance. This garden is a meaningful place where we remember and honour loved ones, which made the day even more special. The purpose of this event was to care for our environment while also celebrating mothers and showing appreciation for nature. By planting trees and flowers in the Garden of Remembrance, we not only made the area more beautiful but also created a peaceful and respectful space for reflection. Planting trees is important because trees provide oxygen, reduce pollution, give shade, and help prevent soil erosion. The flowers we planted will attract bees and butterflies, which help with pollination and support the ecosystem. Everyone worked together by digging holes, planting, watering the plants, and cleaning the area afterwards. It was a meaningful way to celebrate Mothering Sunday because just like mothers care for their children, we showed care for our environment and honoured special memories. In conclusion, the tree and flower planting in the Garden of Remembrance was a successful and heartfelt activity. It promoted environmental awareness while also strengthening our sense of remembrance and unity. By  Mme.Thandi Mkhonza (Mothers Union Eco-Champ of Diocese of Highveld)  

On Saturday, 28 February 2026, members of the Anglican Women Fellowship (AWF) and Mafumahadi from Mangaung in Bloemfontein gathered for a meaningful environmental awareness visit to the Free State National Botanical Garden. The day offered a space for reflection, learning, and renewed commitment to environmental stewardship during the Lenten season. A Call to Reflection Lay Canon Thapelo Mabule called on participants to engage in deep self-introspection during Lent, encouraging Anglicans to reflect on their personal responsibility for environmental conservation. He reminded those in attendance that the environment sustains human life by providing essential resources such as food, water, and natural materials; without it, life would not be possible. Learning from Nature Mr and Mrs Ngalo guided participants through insightful lessons on biodiversity. They highlighted the importance of indigenous trees, including the yellowwood — South Africa’s national tree, known for being evergreen, slow-growing, and among the tallest trees in the country’s forests. Participants also learned about: Medicinal and fragrant plants Succulents Plants of spiritual significance, such as Ziziphus mucronata The discussion explored alien invasive species, including blue gum and wattle trees, noting their negative impact on water resources while acknowledging their commercial value in construction and furniture manufacturing. Fossilised trees formed through ancient volcanic activity were also identified, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich geological history. Protecting Ecosystems The vital role of wetlands in purifying water and conserving ecosystems was emphasised, alongside the urgent need to protect them. Climate change was identified as a contributing factor to species extinction, heatwaves, and floods, underscoring the responsibility of individuals and communities to take meaningful action. Participants further gained insight into: The ecological importance of snakes in maintaining biodiversity The significance of the grassland biome Controlled burning practices are used to preserve grassland ecosystems Advocacy for Present and Future Generations Ikaelelo Madikgetla underscored the importance of environmental advocacy across various platforms, including the Church, municipalities, Conferences of the Parties (COP), and other organisations. She emphasised that while the environment cannot speak for itself, humanity must be its voice for the sake of both present and future generations. A big thank you to the organizer, Mme Mdi, expressed , all participants for a fruitful and enriching day.  By : Eco-Champ Tshegofatso Lekgetho    

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.

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!”