With its neo-Greek front of granite ashlar, Truro Methodist Church is a strikingly beautiful building in the centre of Truro in the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Methodist District. Originally known as St Mary’s Wesleyan Chapel – the church is a Grade II listed building built in 1830, before being remodelled and refitted by Silvanus Trevail in the late nineteenth century.
Its grand and majestic history and architecture are a gift and a problem as it means significant restrictions in getting towards net zero. It did not stop the Truro team from starting the journey and they achieved their A Rocha Eco Church silver award – but COVID made a difference in their carbon footprint as it was closed for 12 months!
“We are blessed to have a group of people passionate about the environment who always remember us that it is our common responsibility to ensure that we lower our carbon emissions."
Revd Mark Dunn-Wilson, minister of the Truro Circuit.Every week, they write an article for the magazine with an eco-thought and a challenge. “When you combine that with the cost of living crisis and prices going through the roof for gas and electricity, saying it's costing us £600 a week for our gas and electricity is fairly mind focusing. Especially as we have already reduced our costs and are being careful,” adds Mark.
The church is passionate about recycling and it's a central part of their mission. They use Fairtrade and locally sourced food in their community café and also collect and donate food that would otherwise be thrown away by supermarkets at their gospel table, thus helping to reduce food waste.
“We are aiming for a Gold award, but it will be very difficult given our building. It is our aspiration and we will continue the journey; there's no shortage, shortage of willingness and commitment,” concludes Mark.