St Oswald’s recently hosted a People’s Emergency Briefing on the Climate and Nature Crisis, bringing together people from the church and wider community for an evening of information, reflection and discussion.

Rev Terry Williams welcomed everyone to St Oswald’s before Churchwarden Stuart Davis introduced the film. The briefing explored the scale and urgency of the climate and nature crisis, while also highlighting some of the progress already being made.

Following the film, everyone enjoyed refreshments and homemade cake, with special thanks to Elaine Williams, before breaking into small groups to discuss what had surprised or challenged them, what they were already doing, and what more we might do together.

The feedback covered a wide range of issues. People reflected on rising temperatures and CO₂ levels, biodiversity loss, fossil fuels, food production and consumption, and particularly the impact our choices today will have on future generations. There was also encouragement from positive developments, including renewable energy and the growth of electric vehicles.

It was encouraging to hear how much people are already doing. Examples included using solar panels and electric or hybrid cars, reducing meat consumption, growing vegetables, composting, creating wildlife-friendly spaces, litter picking and volunteering with conservation and hedgehog rescue projects.

A strong theme was that, while individual choices are important, collective action is essential. Suggestions included better public transport, reducing unnecessary consumption and food waste, encouraging supermarkets to cut packaging, engaging with MPs and other decision-makers, and making more space for nature in our communities.

One particularly positive idea was that our individual gardens and small patches of land may seem insignificant on their own, but together they can form a substantial network of habitats for wildlife.

The evening generated plenty of thoughtful discussion and practical ideas — and reinforced the importance of working together as a church and community in caring for God’s creation.

Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed to the discussions and helped make the evening such a worthwhile event.