The beginning of May marked International Compost Week, a fitting backdrop for an inspiring conversation between Eco-Champions Ikaelelo Madikgetla and Odireleng Sepato during their visit to the Anglican Students’ Federation (ASF) Free State Conference. Their engagement with students sparked meaningful dialogue about environmental responsibility, faith, and practical action.
Odireleng Sepato, a passionate advocate for composting, led an informative session on the how and why of compost making. He explained the importance of correctly layering compost materials and shared tips on how to tell when compost is ready to use. “Composts are very important in our environment because they reduce waste, improve soil health, and support plant growth,” he emphasised. He encouraged attendees to explore composting as a means of supporting organic gardening and sustainable food production.
Ikaelelo Madikgetla then shifted the conversation to the Five Marks of Mission of the Anglican Church, linking them directly to environmental justice. She challenged the group to embrace their role as young Anglicans and to rise as a prophetic voice in a time of ecological crisis. “We are the first generation to feel the effects of global warming, and it is our responsibility to ensure that we are the last to do so,” she declared passionately.
When delegates broke into small groups, a recurring concern emerged: “When will the Federation take a stand?” Many felt that while environmental education is important, it must ultimately be translated into action. As one attendee noted, “Green Anglicans is doing its best to ensure that we are educated, but it remains up to us to take care of the world God has entrusted to us.”
Another voice added, “God gave us authority over creation—not to exploit it, but to care for it. Have we not failed to obey God?” This powerful question opened up a deeper and somewhat unexpected conversation around eco-theology. Participants agreed on the need for more sessions focused on understanding scripture through an environmental lens.
In a collective activity, the house was asked to create a theme around the Five Marks of Mission, and one theme resonated deeply: “Greening Our Faith.” Drawing on the familiar saying “cleanliness is next to holiness,” participants explored how spiritual values naturally connect to environmental ethics. The group agreed on a practical way forward: embracing sustainable living—reducing waste, using eco-friendly products, and becoming conscious stewards of God’s creation.
This gathering was more than a conference; it was a call to action, rooted in faith, driven by knowledge, and led by passionate young eco-disciples.
by : Ikaelelo Madikgetla
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