At Harvestide we celebrate the gifts of creation and gratitude for the crops which are harvested, marking the conclusion of the agricultural year.
Harvestide is not only a time for thanksgiving but also for reflecting on our responsibility to care for the environment.
The Cathedral is proud to be in partnership with Transition Town Chichester (TTC), working together to host events such as our Clothing Swap Shop. Below we're highlighting their work within our community.
Transition Town Chichester: A Local Connection
TTC is part of the national movement of Transition Towns, one of the biggest social movements of modern times. This group of enthusiastic forward-thinking people are keen to promote and embrace the change needed to reduce the potential effects of climate destruction and economic instability. They are raising awareness of the positive things we can all do – focusing on supporting each other in these challenging times with particular consideration of our natural resources, biodiversity, and waste reduction. From energy to food, from growing to reskilling, TTC is the umbrella group for a wide range of exciting and welcoming groups that focus on every aspect of life today, helping promote sustainability with strong community bonds among local people, local institutions, local agencies and the local council.
Current projects from TCC includes:
- Grow Chichester: Manages two community gardens and orchards which focus on gardening for mental and physical health.
- Earth Café: A weekly gathering at the Friends Meeting House, providing an opportunity for people to meet, make friends and discuss environmental matters.
- Food for Friends: Fortnightly event to promote social integration. TTC volunteers meet refugees and asylum seekers to share cooking and learn about each other's cultures.
- C3G (Chichester Climate Change Group): A new group formed to provide a forum for discussion and learning on climate change from global down to local level.
- Repair Café: offering mechanical and electrical repairs to household items, and also jewellery and clothing repairs to your favourite fashions.
- Greener Screen: Annual season of environmental films held in partnership with the Chichester Cinema at New Park.
Our commitment to a sustainable future
Here at the Cathedral we have taken several steps to reduce our environmental impact, including improving energy efficiency, reducing waste and protecting local biodiversity.
To learn more about our efforts, click here >> or attend one of our upcoming sustainability events, which often coincide with local festivals like Harvestide, offering a perfect opportunity for spiritual and environmental reflection.
For more information on Transition Town Chichester's projects, visit www.transitionchichester.org or pick up a copy of their monthly "Shout-Out" available at The Novium Museum or New Park Community Centre.
By supporting groups like Transition Town Chichester, we contribute to a collective movement of care - for each other and for our planet.
You can find out more about how the Church of England are encouraging us to hope and act with creation here>>