Common Ground: Conversations on Faith and the Environment with Bishop Mary

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Common Ground is a short podcast series exploring the connection between faith, the environment and the world we share. Through conversations with Christians from across the Diocese of Oxford who are also leading voices in climate science, conservation, sustainability and environmental action, the series uncovers how faith shapes their work and their hope for the future. Thought-provoking, accessible and grounded in real-life experience, Common Ground invites people of all backgrounds to join the conversation about caring for creation and building a more sustainable future together.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 5: Searching for Sanctuary with Krish Kandiah

    In this episode, Bishop Mary Gregory is joined by author, broadcaster and refugee advocate Krish Kandiah to explore what it means to offer sanctuary in a world shaped by conflict, displacement and climate change. Together they discuss hospitality as a defining Christian practice, the stories that shape public attitudes towards refugees and migration, and the Church’s calling to be both deeply rooted in local communities and globally engaged. Drawing on scripture, personal experience and the work of the Sanctuary Foundation, this conversation offers a thoughtful challenge to reimagine welcome, compassion and faithful discipleship in today's world.

    52 min

  2. 5d ago

    Episode 4: Spirit in the Storm with Revd Canon Janet Binns

    Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, Bishop Mary Gregory speaks with the Revd Canon Janet Binns, who recently visited the islands and witnessed both the destruction and the remarkable resilience of local communities. Drawing on her personal connections to Jamaica, Janet reflects on stories of faith, recovery and hope, as churches and neighbours come together to rebuild lives and livelihoods. Their conversation also explores the growing reality of climate change, the unequal burden it places on vulnerable communities, and what churches in the UK can do in response.

    33 min

  3. 6d ago

    Episode 3: Working with the Grain of Nature with Dr Mike Morecroft

    In this episode, Bishop Mary Gregory is joined by Dr Mike Morecroft, Natural England’s Principal Specialist on Climate Change and a Licensed Lay Minister in Hungerford. Drawing on his expertise in climate science and nature conservation, Mike explores how habitats can become more resilient in a changing climate, the opportunities and challenges of rewilding, and how nature recovery can work alongside food production. From tree planting and biodiversity to the return of red kites across southern England, he shares practical ways individuals and communities can care for creation, while offering a hopeful vision of nature’s remarkable ability to recover when given the chance. 🌿

    46 min

  4. Jun 8

    Episode 2: The Locals Keep the Lights On with Farmer Henry Astor

    In this episode of Common Ground, Bishop Mary speaks with Henry Astor owner of Bruern Farms about the challenges facing British farming, the disconnect between people and the food they eat, and what truly sustainable agriculture could look like. Together they explore nature restoration, renewable energy on farmland, supporting the next generation of farmers, and Henry’s efforts to build a more resilient and wildlife-friendly farming system. 🌱🚜🌾

    42 min

  5. Jun 4

    Episode 1: Observing the Earth with Professor Chris Merchant

    In this episode of Common Ground, Bishop Mary speaks with Professor Chris Merchant about his work in ocean and climate observation, the vital role of scientific research in understanding climate change, and how faith can shape our response to environmental challenges. Chris, who worships at St Paul's Church, Wokingham and is a professor at University of Reading, also shares insights from his involvement with different projects one of which attended COP. Together they explore how science, faith and hope can help us care for creation and work towards a more sustainable future.

    40 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

Common Ground is a short podcast series exploring the connection between faith, the environment and the world we share. Through conversations with Christians from across the Diocese of Oxford who are also leading voices in climate science, conservation, sustainability and environmental action, the series uncovers how faith shapes their work and their hope for the future. Thought-provoking, accessible and grounded in real-life experience, Common Ground invites people of all backgrounds to join the conversation about caring for creation and building a more sustainable future together.

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