From February 7–9, 2025, Green Anglicans Ecochamps, Diocesan Office Staff, and Mothers’ Union representatives gathered at Nondumiso Farm and Retreat Center in Bolotwa near Komani in the Eastern Cape South Africa, for a workshop and strategic planning retreat. The event was opened by Bishop Sibeko who, citing Psalm 24:1, emphasised the responsibility of all to care for the Earth and urged participants to find innovative ways to address environmental issues in their parishes and communities.
The two-day planning session, led by Ms. Snazo Songca (Diocesan GA Coordinator) and supported by Mr. B. Makhalanyane (Provincial GA Youth Coordinator) and Ms. P. Maqashalala (Diocesan GA Administrator) focused on key environmental challenges such as food security, waste management, and climate change. Discussions led to the development of concrete action plans for the diocese.
On Saturday, Revd. P. Nomxhego (Rector of St. John the Baptist, Bolotwa) celebrated a mid-day Eucharist in nature, preaching on Mark 6:34 and encouraging Ecochamps to remain committed to ecojustice despite challenges.
On Sunday, participants joined the congregation of St. John the Baptist for worship, concluding the retreat on a spiritually uplifting note.
The retreat was an educational and transformative experience, leaving Ecochamps inspired and ready to take action across the Diocese.
By: Putuma Maqashalala