Holy Trinity Church, Twydall is proving that faith and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
The Church of England congregation, known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere, has taken significant steps to align its spiritual mission with a commitment to caring for God’s creation.
Holy Trinity's journey toward sustainability began with its dedication to the Eco Church initiative, an award-based program run by A Rocha UK that encourages churches to integrate environmental care into every aspect of their life and work.
The Rev Mike Nelson and volunteer Environment Officer Hayley Syms, manage the church's participation in the national Eco Church scheme.
By engaging in the program, Holy Trinity has focused its efforts in five critical areas: worship and teaching, management of church buildings and land, community engagement, and lifestyle.
Watch this short film in which Hayley explains some of the steps the church is taking
The church’s efforts were first recognised in June 2022 when it was awarded the Bronze Eco Church Award. This milestone reflected its initial strides toward reducing its environmental impact.
Holy Trinity continued to develop new projects and initiatives, culminating in the Silver Eco Church Award received in March 2024.
These awards demonstrate the church’s commitment to sustainability, setting an example for other faith communities in the area.
Wild Garden Project: A Flourishing Haven for Wildlife
One of Holy Trinity’s most visible and impactful projects is the creation of its Wild Garden, which has quickly become a cherished sanctuary for both people and wildlife.
What was once an overgrown and neglected plot behind the church hall has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem, brimming with wildflowers, bee-friendly plants, and insect habitats.
Work on the Wild Garden began in August 2021, with volunteers rolling up their sleeves to clear the area of nettles, brambles, and litter. Over the following months, the garden was prepped for planting, with wildflower seeds sown in early 2022. By July the garden was officially opened, showcasing a beautiful array of plants, including Hidcote lavender, verbena, and echinacea.
"We believe that God’s creation is precious, and that Christians have a responsibility to be stewards of our planet,"
said Rev Mike.
"The Wild Garden is an expression of our faith in action—creating a space where people can connect with nature, reflect, and recharge."
Indeed, the garden is designed not only as a haven for insects and wildlife but also as a peaceful retreat for members of the church and local community.
A grass pathway meanders through the space, leading to a tranquil seating area where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty around them. Bug hotels and other insect-friendly features dot the landscape, inviting nature to flourish.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Holy Trinity’s environmental efforts are about more than just the Wild Garden. The church serves as a Terracycle recycling hub, offering the local community a way to dispose of difficult-to-recycle items sustainably.
It also encourages eco-conscious living among its congregation through teaching, worship, and practical initiatives.
As the church looks to the future, it is committed to building on the momentum of its environmental projects. Having achieved Silver in the Eco Church scheme, Holy Trinity is aiming for the prestigious Gold award.
The church hopes to inspire more local organisations and individuals to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
"Caring for God’s creation is central to who we are as a church,"
says Hayley.
"We are excited to continue this journey, and we welcome everyone to join us—whether through attending a service, visiting the Wild Garden, or taking part in our recycling efforts."
With its blend of faith, community service, and environmental care, Holy Trinity Church is an example of how local churches can lead the way in sustainability efforts, one small step at a time.
Through projects like the Wild Garden and ongoing engagement with the Eco Church scheme, the church is helping to ensure a greener, more sustainable future for all.
For more information about Holy Trinity’s services, environmental programs, or to get involved in the Wild Garden, visit their website or stop by the church hall, where the congregation is always ready with a warm welcome.