With winter snapping at our heels and the clocks due to go back this weekend, the energy we use in our homes and churches starts to increase.
But there are plenty of practical ways we can reduce the energy we use.
The Church of England has a dedicated page that lists tips and tricks and resources from other organisations helping you to reduce your energy use. There is also a section of advice specifically aimed at helping clergy to meet their household energy bills.
Heating your church this winter | The Church of England
Energy Grant Fund
The Church of England has already committed £15m to help churches to cover the increased cost of heating and lighting church buildings this winter, with £300k of that amount coming to the Diocese of Chester. Further details of how to apply for this support will be communicated in the E-Bulletin soon.
Warm Hubs
Some churches in our diocese are offering warm spaces for those struggling to heat their homes this winter. Not all churches can offer this service, but some maybe able to do so.
Writing in the Church House Blog, the Buildings for Mission Adviser, Sheena Wilson, looks at what Warm Hubs are and offers some advice on whether this is something you and your church could be offering this winter. She also shares resources to help you explore this topic at a time of need for many in our communities.