It’s been good remembering the anniversary of the Apollo11 moon landing in 1969.
It was an astonishing moment in the history of humanity; for the achievement, the science, and the teamwork.
It’s reckoned that 400,000 people were directly involved in putting those first men on the moon!
After that trip the image we have of ourselves and our world was changed forever.
As a result of the pictures of the earth rising above the horizon of the moon, everyone can now see what our planet looks like as it spins through space.
It is a globe of amazing beauty; a glistening jewel. It is also our only home and we share it together.
Those images of stark contrast between the grey lifelessness of the moon and the vibrant colours and life of the earth remind us that we have a precious gift which we need to take care of and preserve.
Later this year, on 1st September, Christians across the world will celebrate the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation.
My church will join with others in a five-week “Season of Creation” when we will give thanks to God for the gift of the earth, pray; and be challenged to take action to care for it.
We will celebrate the truth that no person and no action is too small to make a difference. We will be reminded again to love the earth, it’s life, and the people we share it with.
The Revd Canon David Hodgson, Rector of All Saints Wokingham; on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
