‘Instead of briers, the myrtle will grow.’ Isaiah 55:13
Following completion of its first phase of refurbishment and energy-efficiency improvements, Methodist Centenary Church was at last able to begin a pollinator friendly planting programme. The first step was made possible with the support the ECI Small Grant and the purchase of a myrtle tree in a large pot for the church entrance. The pot was enthusiastically filled by the children during Sunday service, the scattering of soil around the communion table reflecting the determination with which the task was completed.
The Myrtus communis was chosen because of its attraction for bees and other pollinators in summer when its crisp white, star-like flowers will appear. The aromatic purple berries that follow in autumn will also attract the birds.
Rev Andrew Kingston placed an inscription beside the tree, taken from Isaiah 55:13: ‘instead of briers the myrtle will grow’. In his sermon, he spoke of the significance of Isaiah’s message of hope, renewal, blessing and growth in a time of corrupt leadership and oppression before the Babylonian exile. Sustaining our own sense of hope in this era of authoritarianism, brutal conflict and climate disruption is a daily challenge. As the myrtle tree blossoms, we will look to it as a symbol from which to draw spiritual nourishment, as well as awareness of our dependence on the pollinators.
Maureen Rowan, Eco Congregation Coordinator