Cyclists and supporters gathered for a special bike blessing service outside Birmingham Cathedral on Saturday 29 June.
Sixteen bikes were brought to the service. Prayers were said for the safety of cyclists in the city and for guidance in promoting sustainable travel choices across the diocese.
Bike accessories were also collected to assist local refugees who cycle in the city.
The Reverend Canon Andy Delmege, Canon Missioner at Birmingham Cathedral said:
“We are committed to praying for the safety of our roads and communities, as well as supporting people to make more sustainable travel choices where they can. The service was a joyful celebration of cycling, bringing together both cyclists and non-cyclists alike. This is another step forward in wider environmental and sustainability work, which we hope will inspire people across our communities to consider how we can all play our own part in tackling climate change. ”
Keen cycling clergy from across the diocese were part of the planning of the service, which was also a celebration of the joy cycling brings to many people.
The Reverend Louise Beasley, Curate in Lickey and Blackwell Parish, said:
“It was wonderful to see cyclists journey into the city to have their bikes blessed during this outdoor service, as well as cyclists passing by, stopping to join us as we prayed for safer cycling roads.”
The service was part of the cathedral’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Church of England’s Net Zero 2030 programme and working to create a sustainable future for all.
Birmingham Cathedral is also working towards achieving the Eco Church Silver and Gold awards, with support from a working group formed of cathedral clergy, staff and congregation members. The group has helped facilitate discussions to assess people’s understanding of climate issues and to hear feedback on how the cathedral can help people in making more climate-conscious decisions in their everyday lives.
It is hoped the bike blessing service can be an annual event, as part of the cathedral’s ongoing support for sustainable travel in the local community.
Visit our Environment and Sustainability page for more information about t our climate commitments and plans.
