Parishes urged to make ecological conversion

Catholics in the Diocese of Brentwood are being urged to walk to Mass, eat less meat and use low-energy light bulbs, writes Liz Dodd.

In a message to parishes, sent in response to Pope Francis’ recent encyclical on the environment, Bishop Alan Williams has asked all parishes to work towards achieving Cafod’s LiveSimply award.

The award is a “practical way to respond to the papal imperative at parish level”, the bishop said.

To win the award parishes must demonstrate nine ways in which they put into practice the principles of showing solidarity with people in poverty.

Brentwood Cathedral attained the standard 18 months ago. recently celebrated LiveSimply Week with activities such as a prayer vigil and a food bank collection.

Five parishes in Brentwood are currently pursuing the award.