FIRST ECO CATHEDRAL FOR CHELMSFORD
It is likely that Chelmsford Cathedral will be the first eco cathedral in the country. The administrator, David Fifield now awaits national approval to an application to Eco-congregation, an ecumenical organisation, be given eco-congregation status.
The finishing touches have now been given to the application. Writing in "Cathedral Life," the monthly magazine, Mr Fifield states "this not only reflects a huge amount of work but also represents a huge step towards achieving the Chapter's (governing body) environmental policy." The award would affirm good cathedral practice.
The "Rocha UK "ecumenical project for churches in Britain and Ireland aims to help consider environmental issues in the context of their Christian life and mission and to take positive action to address those issues. (Ref: www.ecocongregation.org.uk )
Among the initiatives taken at Chelmsford are issuing green bins in offices for paper recycling, using a compost heap in the Guy Harlings gardens, declaring an office stationery amnesty and encouraging economy in the use of all resources: heating etc.
The Chapter has also commissioned an environmental audit of the Chapter House and a number of ideas are being followed up - eg: changing fuel used for heating from electricity to gas; improving thermal insulation in the roof and walls; providing an energy upgrade to the lift and fitting low-flow water using appliances to taps etc. In addition, light fittings and some domestic electrical items will be replaced.
Renewing the Cathedral's five main boilers with energy efficient models and incorporating a dedicated low energy circuit into the Cathedral lighting system will be investigated. Mr Fifield asks for the support of worshippers and he will keep them advised. The Cathedral community has its own Environmental Group and has Fair trade church status.A cathedral jute shopping bag is available at the bookstall (£2.50).
MALE VOICE CHOIR IN FOCUS
Chelmsford Male Voice Choir will present the Friday lunch time concert this week on March 13. The concert begins at 12.30 and refreshments are served from 12 noon.
CASH FOR MISSION CROATIA
The Cathedral and University chaplain, the Revd Canon Ivor Moody announced his part in the annual Maldon Mud Race raised the sum of £450 for Mission Croatia.
ENDS