Morning Worship on Sunday 4 October 2026 was led by Philip Nalpanis of A Rocha UK, the Christian environmental charity that supports churches in caring for God’s creation. As an Eco Church, Trinity is already recognised with a Bronze Award for its commitment to the environment, and we are now actively working towards a Silver Award under A Rocha’s scheme.
Philip’s service brought together hymns, Bible readings, prayers, and a sermon that reminded us how faith and practical action come together in caring for the world God has entrusted to us as stewards.
He explored the biblical foundations of care for the environment in Genesis, saying that our calling is to be faithful stewards of God’s world. He explained that ‘subdue’ and ‘have dominion’ are not about exploitation but about cultivating, serving, and preserving the earth. Drawing on Colossians 1, he said that Christ is the one through whom all things were created and through whom all things are reconciled, placing the care of creation at the heart of the gospel. He echoed the Pope’s words that destroying creation is a sin. Philip went on to say that our hope in the resurrection is not an escape from the world but taking part in God’s work of restoring the Kingdom, as we pray in the Lord’s Prayer: ‘Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven.’
He encouraged practical steps that express care for creation in everyday life:
- Reduce consumption and buy only what is needed
- Repair items instead of replacing them
- Borrow or share tools and equipment
- Support environmental groups and take part in local conservation projects
- Campaign for stronger environmental policy by writing to MPs
- Pray regularly for the environment and talk openly about the environment
He ended with a reminder that Christian hope is active: every small act of care, every choice to protect creation, and every prayer for the earth is part of God’s work. As he quoted from The Message: “Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.” (1 Corinthians 15:58b)