Dictionary

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Bishop

‘Bishop’ comes from the Greek word for ‘overseer’. So a bishop is a senior Christian minister authorised to have oversight for God’s people. As well as duties given to deacons and priests, bishops confirm and ordain.

Diocese

‘Diocese’ refers to the geographical territory in which a bishop exercises oversight. The Church in Wales is divided into six dioceses each with its own cathedral in which is housed the cathedra (the bishop’s ‘chair’ or ‘throne’).

Home Pobl Dewi: September 2024 Growing Environmental Stewardship

Growing Environmental Stewardship

Tracey Jane Ashcroft, of the diocesan Care of Creation Group, tells how, under Bishop Dorrien’s leadership, churches in St Davids Diocese have embarked on a remarkable journey towards caring for creation.

Embracing the importance of ecological conservation, churches and communities are transforming their burial grounds into thriving ecological habitats that serve as a testament to the beauty of nature.

Green Churchyards

Green Churchyard

Preserving the historical significance of these sacred spaces while providing areas of peace, education, and natural beauty, churches are creating havens that honour the memories of loved ones while nurturing the environment. Wildflower beds sway gently in the breeze, attracting butterflies and other pollinators, bringing life and colour to these serene landscapes.

Bishop Dorrien’s dedication to promoting environmental stewardship within the diocese will not only beautify the burial grounds but also instil a sense of reverence and appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings. Through these efforts, the churches in the diocese are becoming shining examples of how faith and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

As we walk through these sacred grounds, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and cherishing the natural world around us. In the spirit of this stewardship, let us reflect on the words of Psalm 24:1 - "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." This verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for God's creation and to be good stewards of the earth.

Bishop Dorrien’s leadership has inspired a deep respect for the earth and all its inhabitants, creating places of true beauty that reflect the harmony between humanity and nature.