Harvest festival will mark new direction for Minster

The service takes place on Sunday, October 9 from 10.30am when gifts will be collected to distribute to the town’s homeless.

Ned Smith, one of the Minster’s Social Justice Vision Group members, said: “This year we are asking for practical donations for the homeless such as food for the food bank which we regularly support, and toiletries.

“Everyone is very welcome to attend.”

The event will also mark the launch of the Minster’s project to gain Eco Church status.

The Minster’s Social Justice Vision Group is behind the idea and will be taking the lead on the project.

The Minster will work with the Church of England and the Methodist Church to deliver its vision of becoming more eco-friendly.

Ned said: “There are five key areas we are looking into in order to secure eco status and these include worship, the building and surrounding land as well as our local community and lifestyle.

“We have set up a walking group and we are also installing bike lockers so that people can cycle to the Minster for services and events.

“Another project is a community garden and we are now in talks with Calderdale Council about this. The children are also involved with planting up containers, growing flowers and herbs which will encourage wildlife.”