As the Season of Creation 2022 begins, the Diocese of Leeds is pleased to share new reflections for churches to use in their responses to the season.
The Season of Creation runs from Thursday, September 1, to Tuesday, October 4, the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, and is a time for churches across the world to think and pray about how we can better care for God’s creation.
This year the theme is ‘Listening to the Voice of Creation’, with the symbol being the burning bush from the story of Moses.
Our reflections have been written by Christine Jack, of Christ Church Harrogate, and follow parts of the Gospel of Luke.
There is also material for use in a Harvest service, with readings from the Gospel of John and collects.
To introduce the reflections Christine writes: “Today, increasing awareness of environmental crisis has led to widespread religious reflection on the human relationship with the earth and with its’ encompassing protective atmosphere.
“Emerging from this reflection has come the study of eco-theology, a form of constructive theology that focuses on the interrelationships of religion and nature, particularly in the light of environmental concerns.
“Eco-theology explores the interaction between ecological values, such as sustainability, and the human nature, set in a God-centred framework of worship and work.
“How can we live on this planet in a sustainable way while preserving its biodiversity and maintaining healthy, just, and lively communities in contemporary society?
“The Season of Creation provides an opportunity to try and answer this question.”
The diocese will be sharing prayers and stories throughout the season, sharing the good work many are doing and helping us to consider how we can care for creation.
To download these reflections, and to find more worship material, please click here.
The Church of England’s material responding to the Season of Creation can be found here.
To find out more about the Season of Creation, please click here.