The Salvation Army recently hosted an eco-event in Norwich, which showcased a variety of creative and practical ways to care for the environment and support the local community. The event, held on June 13 at the church’s base on St Giles Street, was part of the Climate Coalition’s Great Big Green Week, a national initiative to encourage people to make changes, big or small, to improve their communities and the natural world. The Salvation Army’s mission priority, “Care for Creation,” was the driving force behind the event, which aimed to promote responsible living, reuse, and recycling. As Major Tracey Bale, the organizer of the event, explained, “We’re trying to do all that we can to promote people being responsible; reusing things, recycling things, rather than throwing things away and buying things new.”
The event featured a range of exciting and interactive activities, including fantastic crafts that upcycled wool and other materials, giving visitors the opportunity to get involved and try something new. One of the highlights of the event was a display by the Matthew Project, which showcased a furniture upcycling project that transformed two old dining chairs into a beautiful garden bench. The bench was made by people supported by the Matthew Project, under the instruction of Kath at the charity’s woodwork studio, and was donated to the Salvation Army for use in their garden. Additionally, Tesco donated school uniforms to the church, which were distributed to families in need, with some available at the event for people to take away free of charge. A film also showed an initiative by the Salvation Army’s trading company, which uses cutting-edge technology to recycle polyester, allowing it to be re-threaded into yarn and reused to make new garments.
The Salvation Army’s commitment to caring for the environment and supporting the local community is deeply rooted in their Christian values. As Major Tracey Bale explained, “We’ve always been classed as ‘Christianity with our sleeves rolled up,’ so we’re always doing things to show God’s love in a practical way.” The Salvation Army’s approach is one of friendship evangelism, where they aim to show God’s love and care through their actions, rather than forcing their beliefs on others. This approach is reflected in their conversation about “upcycling” people, where they believe that accepting God into their lives can transform and renew individuals. As Tracey said, “He changes people’s lives. I don’t recognise myself from what I used to be like, because God has really changed my life, and I know he can do that for other people and their lives will be so much better for it.”
The event also featured a range of eco-friendly activities, including eco-tips, quilting and knitting workshops, and opportunities for visitors to get involved and be inspired to look at the things they consume through an eco-friendly lens. The Salvation Army’s congregation is made up of keen crafters who are able to rework fabric and thread into items to sell for charitable causes. By promoting eco-friendly living and supporting local causes, the Salvation Army is demonstrating their commitment to caring for creation and showing God’s love in a practical way. As Tracey said, “I want other people to have that fulfilment; to know that they are loved, that they are accepted for who they are, and that God doesn’t make rubbish.” The event was a huge success, with many visitors inspired to make changes in their own lives and to get involved in the Salvation Army’s mission to care for creation.
The Salvation Army’s eco-event in Norwich is just one example of the many ways in which the organization is working to care for the environment and support local communities. By promoting responsible living, reuse, and recycling, the Salvation Army is demonstrating their commitment to caring for creation and showing God’s love in a practical way. As Major Barry Willson, from the Salvation Army, said, “We’re not just about words, we’re about actions. We want to show people that we care, and that we’re committed to making a difference in our community.” The Salvation Army’s approach is one of holistic ministry, where they aim to care for the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. By addressing the practical needs of individuals and communities, the Salvation Army is able to show God’s love and care in a way that is both meaningful and effective.
In conclusion, the Salvation Army’s eco-event in Norwich was a huge success, showcasing a range of creative and practical ways to care for the environment and support the local community. The event reflected the Salvation Army’s commitment to caring for creation and showing God’s love in a practical way. By promoting responsible living, reuse, and recycling, the Salvation Army is demonstrating their commitment to caring for the environment and supporting local causes. As Major Tracey Bale said, “We’re trying to do all that we can to promote people being responsible; reusing things, recycling things, rather than throwing things away and buying things new.” The Salvation Army’s approach is one of friendship evangelism, where they aim to show God’s love and care through their actions, rather than forcing their beliefs on others. By getting involved in the Salvation Army’s mission to care for creation, individuals can make a real difference in their communities and show God’s love in a practical way.
