Partnering locally to care for creation

Members of St Edward’s Church Goathurst have been working with their local community to care for creation in creative and practical ways that involved volunteers from different places and generations. 
And they’ve discovered that even a fallen tree can be an opportunity to share the church’s story and raise much needed funds – a reminder that God’s generosity can be witnessed in the most unexpected ways and places.  

In partnership with Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme, St Edward’s Church has installed bird nesting boxes in trees in the churchyard. Organised and paid for by the partnership scheme, the bird boxes were made by members of The Men’s Shed in Bridgwater, a group that brings men together to share tools, skills and companionship. The boxes where then painted by pupils from the local Enmore Primary School, who gave their time during lunchbreaks to help out. 

Churchwarden Brenda Smith says, “Partnership and teamwork are the key themes linking these projects and Goathurst PCC is hugely grateful to all who gave of their time and skills to enhance our environment. 

When a large fir tree in the churchyard was damaged in a storm, the church community saw it not as a loss but an opportunity. Local wood carver Gary Orange used the remaining stump to create a back-to-back bench engraved with the words ‘love, hope, joy and peace’ which now offers a quiet reflection of faith outside the church building. The work on the bench was made possible through a grant from the local Parish Council. Gary also carved ten owls from the tree’s wood and donated them to be sold for church funds. More animals are also being carved, and these will be available for people to buy at local events later in the year.

Brenda says, “If we step out in faith and sew seeds, God will honour that.”