The Church of England has made a bold and hopeful commitment: to reach Net Zero Carbon by 2030. This isn’t simply an environmental target — it’s part of our Christian calling to safeguard God’s creation and work for a fairer, more just world. Climate change already affects the poorest communities most severely, and the loss of biodiversity threatens the wellbeing of our single, shared planet. As a church, we are called to respond in faith, practice, and mission.

Christmas is a time of joy, but it’s also a chance to care for God’s creation. Here are practical ways to celebrate sustainably…

Discover the joy, health benefits, and sense of community that come from raising our voices in harmony.

From Wednesday 10 December (9 am – 6 pm) through to Saturday 13 December (closing at 4 pm), St George’s Church will be transformed into a joyful celebration of creativity, community, and the birth of Jesus.

For many, Christmas is a season of joy. But for some, it’s a time of stress, worry and not enough to go around. That’s where we, as a church family, can step in with compassion and generosity.

Anti-Slavery Day, observed annually on 18th October, provides a vital opportunity to raise awareness of human trafficking and modern slavery. It encourages governments, local authorities, companies, charities and individuals to take meaningful action against this devastating crime.

To mark Black History Month, the Diocese of Guildford has launched Here I Am, a compelling portrait exhibition celebrating Black leaders within the church and inspiring future generations.

Restart a Heart Day takes place annually on 16 October, raising awareness of cardiac arrest and the importance of CPR. With over 40,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the UK each year, fewer than 1 in 10 survive—but CPR and defibrillation can more than double survival chances.

A number of staff, leaders and congregation from across the Parish were fortunate to attend this year’s Church Growth Conference on 10 September. Held at Welcome Church in Woking, the event saw around 600 people from over 100 parishes to hear talks from keynote speakers Pete Grieg and Dr Rachel Jordan-Wolf.

As responsible Stewards of God’s creation, we are called to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth. This sacred responsibility extends to every choice we make—including what we wear.

From Creation to Covenant: Tracing God’s Faithfulness from Genesis to Exodus
14 September 2025 – Easter 2026

Beginning this Sunday we embark on a transformative journey through the foundational books of Genesis and Exodus. This series follows the story of God’s chosen people—from the wonder of creation to the wilderness of waiting, from broken families to bold faith, from slavery to salvation.

As part of Heritage Open Days—England’s largest festival of history and culture—St Giles’ Church has joined forces with The City of London Freemen’s School to offer the public a rare opportunity to explore two of Ashtead’s most cherished landmarks: the Grade II-listed Ashtead Park House and the beautiful twelfth-century St Giles’ Church. Together, we’re opening our doors for an afternoon steeped in elegance, heritage and community spirit.

Being a parent or carer is one of life’s most meaningful roles, and when it comes to nurturing a child’s faith, many of us wonder how to start or what to say. It’s reassuring to know you’re not alone on this journey. Whether you’re new to the idea or have been walking alongside your child’s faith for years, Parenting for Faith offers practical support, gentle wisdom and a welcoming community to grow with.

August brings us a gentle nudge to celebrate joy in all its forms as Happiness Happens Month. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and remember that happiness doesn't always come in grand gestures—it often hides in the laughter shared over tea, a kind smile exchanged on the street, or a heartfelt prayer whispered in peace.

As part of Ashtead PCC’s commitment to net carbon zero, St George’s Church has recently undergone some exciting maintenance work. Not only was the roof space above the dais surveyed as part of our sustainability strategy, but—with a little ingenuity and a towering scaffold—the church bell was lovingly restored to working order for the first time in several years.

In a world facing deep challenges—poverty, violence, division, and injustice—friendship may seem like a small thing. But it is, in fact, a powerful force for peace, healing, and unity.