The Environment Group at St Joseph’s, Thame was formed in early 2023 following a recommendation from the parish Synod process. Chaired by parishioner Andrew Collins, the group quickly began developing a programme of practical actions inspired by Laudato Si’ and CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award. Their aim: to help the parish community live more sustainably, act in solidarity with others, and reflect on simple living as a Gospel value.

Getting Started: Listening and Learning
The group began by engaging the whole parish through a LiveSimply survey at all weekend Masses in February 2023. The short questionnaire, completed via QR code or paper copy, asked parishioners about their daily habits — from turning off lights and reducing plastic, to walking or cycling instead of driving. The responses created a baseline to measure future progress and highlighted areas for improvement, such as choosing Fairtrade products and reducing meat consumption.

The survey became a springboard for parish-wide discussion, shaping the group’s first-year plan.

Lent 2023: A Journey of Ecological Conversion
During Lent 2023, St Joseph’s ran a six-week campaign focusing on sustainable living. Each weekend highlighted a different theme — food and lifestyle, travel, energy, and ethical finance — linking practical action with spiritual reflection. Parishioners received a small Lenten booklet with weekly challenges, encouraging them to do something positive for creation rather than simply “give something up”.

Displays, newsletter items, and a Lenten talk on “Ecological Conversion: The Gift and the Pain” by theologian Donal Dorr deepened understanding and participation across the parish.

Connecting Faith and Nature
The group organised guided walks and outdoor reflection days, combining exercise, ecology, and spirituality.

• At Harcourt Arboretum, parishioner and Wellbeing Outreach Officer Rodger Caseby led a nature walk exploring biodiversity and faith.
• Parish walks to Towersey in 2023 and 2024 built connections with neighbouring churches, including learning from St Catherine’s Eco Church journey.
• A visit to Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve helped families encounter local wildlife and care for their common home.

Practical Action at Home and Church
The parish undertook energy audits of its presbytery, convent and community buildings, exploring opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Parishioners also organised plant sales to raise funds for CAFOD and Aid to the Church in Need, and cultivated saplings for local planting.

A LiveSimply vegetarian recipe collection and a “Walk to Church” weekend encouraged sustainable choices in everyday life. Parish events now use Fairtrade tea and coffee, and CAFOD’s global campaigns are regularly promoted after Mass.

Celebrating Creation
In September 2024, St Joseph’s celebrated its first Creation Mass during the Season of Creation — a joyful liturgy led with the Families’ Group and featuring prayers, music, and symbols reflecting the beauty of God’s world. The parish plans to make this an annual tradition.

Impact and Learning
Through its LiveSimply journey, St Joseph’s has woven ecological awareness into parish life. The Environment Group’s collaborative, creative approach shows how small, consistent actions — from energy audits to shared meals — can inspire real change.

The parish hopes to complete its CAFOD LiveSimply Award soon, but the journey itself has already borne fruit: a more connected, reflective, and outward-looking community.

Top Tips from St Joseph’s, Thame

• Start with a survey to listen and build ownership.
• Link environmental actions with the liturgical year (e.g. Lent, Season of Creation).
• Use parish skills — teachers, scientists, gardeners — to lead themed activities.
• Celebrate progress publicly and involve families.
• Combine spiritual reflection with practical steps for lasting change.

Is your parish ready to start the LiveSimply Award? Find out more on CAFOD's website:

LiveSimply Award