By Canon Cate Edmonds
Scientists in Congregations are projects supported by ECLAS (Equiping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science). SiC aims to bring church and science together. The Cathedral has received funding for a project on Climate Change, at the heart of our project is a unique partnership between the Cathedral, the University, and the Diocese.
We seek to reach out and involve many across the Diocese and country in, outreach activities. A Mini Key Stage 4 Conference held on 17th February was the first step of the project. Secondary schools in Exeter were invited to nominate a few students who were engaged with environmental issues to a mini conference where their ideas could be explored.
The session started with with an exploration of the Museum of the Moon, which was well enjoyed by both students and staff, as you can see in the photo. Nicola Golding of the Met Office explained about the effect of the Moon on the Earth and the weather, followed by a discussion about our responsibilities in stewarding the climate. The Cathedral’s Learning and Collections team gave a brief illustrated talk on items from the Cathedral archive which highlighted climate change and the effects of the weather. It was fascinating and all the students were intrigued by the ancients tomes. I have to say over several hundreds of years we haven’t learnt much.
The session finished with a post it exercise where students were able to write their thoughts about their ideas for change and even how we at the Cathedral could be more environmentally friendly. I look forward to collating these ideas, so watch this space.