ST MARY MAGDALE GUILD HOSTING A PLASTIC-FREE & PAPERLESS COMMEMORATION

On Saturday, 26 July 2025, the Mary Magdalene Guild (MMG) in the Diocese of Mpumalanga held its annual commemoration at St Mary’s, Kabokweni, in the Archdeaconry of the Escarpment.

In alignment with the Green Anglicans campaign and in recognition of July as Plastic-Free Month, the Archdeaconry Task Team, which included the Executive Committee from the hosting parish (St Mary’s) and the Archdeaconry Executive Committee for MMG, made a joint resolution to make the event as eco-conscious as possible.

To reduce plastic waste, the team opted for biodegradable takeaway containers, cups, and balloons. A more significant shift, however, was the decision to go completely paperless. Delegates were encouraged to use their mobile devices to access the programme, and a PDF version of the Anglican hymn book was shared in advance.

While this transition presented some challenges, it ultimately demonstrated that with intentional planning and collective will, it is indeed possible to host large church gatherings in an environmentally responsible way. The experience served as a practical example of living out our faith in the stewardship of creation.

Compiled by: Tiwonge Mary Banda