Earlier this year, St Paul’s held a service of lament for creation – a moving experience of prayers, song, and symbolic action. Together, the congregation expressed sorrow for ecological loss, gratitude for what remains, and hope for renewal. Placing leaves at the foot of trees became an act of surrender and prayer, reminding us that God receives our grief and restores our hope. Communal lament, as St Paul’s demonstrated, is not just possible – it is essential. It forms us spiritually, sustains our action, and reminds us that caring for creation is part of loving what God loves.

In May, Sustainability Champions from the Anglican Diocese of Auckland gathered at St Mary’s by the Sea to reflect on climate grief and Christian hope with Andrew Shamy, and explore practical church responses to the climate crisis. The day included the Climate Fresk workshop and Eco Church action planner, inspiring connection and action across communities.