Treasure and hope

I write listening to the joyful percussive drumming of rain, which falling after the succession of extreme heatwaves and little or no even drizzle, is welcome refreshment of the parched earth.

Worryingly, science tells us summer 2026 wasn’t a one-off aberration, rather the shape of an increasingly uncomfortable and, at times, chaotic climate to come. For now, we may breathe a sigh of relief as on 1st September we move from summer to autumn, meteorologically speaking, heralding cooler days, yet are mindful of the threat posed by the developing El Niño forecast.

1st September also marks the start of the ecumenical and international Season of Creation, which runs to 4th October, St Francis’ Day. Initiated in 1989, it’s a dedicated time for churches to celebrate the wonder of God’s gift of Creation, and recommit to its nurture and care.

During this Season of Creation, St Martin’s will celebrate gaining the Eco Church Silver Award, develop plans for our blossoming garden, and run our 2026 Eco Church Congregational Survey. Look out for this and please add your views. Paper copies will also be available over post-service coffee.

Amidst deepening anxiety about the changing climate, perhaps the most hopeful motivation for humanity to transition to a low carbon world is for people to wonder at the beauty of creation. Jesus preached, ‘where your treasure is, there your heart will be also’. He was inviting us to connect what we treasure with our lifestyle.

Today I spotted a Small Copper butterfly in our suburban garden. It moved my heart with wonder. I wonder what moves your heart? I’m hopeful that through people connecting their treasure and their choices, 2026 may yet herald a turning point in the climate crisis.

David Pickering