St Mary's Weekly Eco Tip: Christmas planning

Back in 1644, the Puritans actually banned Christmas because they felt the celebrations distracted from spiritual life. Today the challenge is a little different, a new survey suggests that around 60 million Christmas presents in the UK will go unwanted.

Instead of letting those gifts gather dust or worse, throwing them away, this could be a season to think about who might genuinely appreciate them, especially at a time when many people are struggling. You could even sell unwanted items on eBay and donate the proceeds to a charity that matters to you.

When choosing gifts in the first place, why not consider something that helps others? With cuts to the UK’s overseas aid budget, this is an opportunity to give in someone’s name in a way that changes lives such as planting trees or sponsoring a child’s education.Thoughtful gifts like these can make Christmas feel more meaningful for everyone involved.

For more eco tips, visit the St Mary’s website: https://www.stmaryislington.org/ecochurch