On Earth Day, Tuesday 22nd April, the Diocese of Liverpool, in partnership with Faiths4Change and Liverpool Cathedral, hosted an inspiring event celebrating churches on their journeys towards Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
Held within the atmospheric setting of Helios, this special evening brought together churches from across the diocese, and beyond —each with a unique story, but all united in their commitment to environmental action. Whether just starting out or already recognised with an Eco Church Award, every church represented is making a meaningful difference to their local community and to the wider world.
The event created space for encouragement, reflection, and celebration. Guests were able to reconnect with old friends, meet new faces, and engage with the Net Zero team who have been supporting parishes in their practical efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The opportunity to experience Helios in an eco-conscious and spiritually reflective setting added a striking dimension to the evening.
A highlight of the event was a thought-provoking keynote speech from Margaret Roberts—Lay Minister, Pioneer (5th Mark of Mission), and representative of Green Christian and Christian Climate Action. She challenged us to consider What can we offer as Christians and people of faith to the world at this time? We show up. We bring our 5 loaves and 2 fish and offer them to be multiplied We immerse ourselves in a Jesus mindset of non-violence and compassion. There are opportunities in every encounter to talk about climate and offer an appropriate response.
Everything we do can be an act of worship, from buying seasonal food to taking the bus.
The Diocese of Liverpool is making remarkable progress on its environmental goals:
• 35 Bronze Eco Churches
• 25 Silver Eco Churches, including Liverpool Cathedral, which received its award during its Centenary year in 2024
• 2 Gold Eco Churches
• And over 100 more churches actively working towards their first accreditation
These awards, given by A Rocha UK, represent not just environmental improvements, but a deep-rooted faith commitment to stewardship, sustainability, and justice.
One guest described the event as:
“Truly inspiring and wonderful, as it highlighted our journey as Christians to care for the Earth that God created.”
Another, representing Christ Church Toxteth Park—a Gold Eco Church—said:
“The Diocese is clearly committed to Net Zero, and this event helped to emphasise the importance of churches stepping up for the environment, especially at a time when climate change is impacting all of creation.”
Rev Canon Chancellor at the Liverpool Cathedral Dr Ellen Loudon, Director of Social Justice, said:
“It was great to spend time with each other and talk about our triumphs and the challenges we’re facing in trying to become Net Zero by 2030.”
Phil Leigh, the Diocesan Environment Officer, added:
“It was great to hear the fantastic stories from across the diocese people were sharing this evening from installing LED lighting, roof insulation and solar panels to switching from gas central heating to radiant panels and progressing on their Eco Church journey. It was truly a great night to catch up with the enthusiastic people making a difference in our churches.”
As the Diocese continues its path towards Net Zero Carbon, this event served as a reminder of the strength, faith, and community spirit driving this vital work forward. Together, these churches are not only transforming buildings but leading the way in showing how faith can meet the challenges of our time—with hope, determination, and love for creation.
In Memory of Pope Francis