The Kew Theology & Gardening Charity

Who are we?

The Kew Theology and Gardening Charity (KTG) was set up by St Anne’s Church, Kew in July 2024 (Registered Charity No. 1209171).  We work to deepen our understanding of the relationship between theology and the natural world. Based at the historic St Anne’s Church, right next door to The Royal Botanic Gardens, KTG is passionate about gardening and gardens as a practical means to engage with creation. At this time of environmental crisis, we understand gardening as an act of love for the world. It is hopeful, restorative, patient, contemplative and an act of co-operation with God’s creation.

The presence of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, its gardeners and scientists, and one of the most biodiverse places in the world, provides a wonderful opportunity for the churches, locally and wider afield, to reflect on our place in the wider scheme of things.

Our Vision

Gardening is one of the most popular recreational activities in the UK, whether the smallest private space or the largest public garden.  All over the country, people of all faiths and none spend time on their knees, hands in the soil, engaging with the gentle virtues of nurture and care. KTG seeks to establish a centre of reflection to encourage people to reflect about the theological significance of their gardens and gardening. Bringing together theologians, environmentalists and practitioners, we will develop a multi-disciplinary and ecumenical approach to theological reflection on gardening.

Our mission is to:

• deepen the Church’s connection with nature
• help us develop our theology of the environment, and
• enhance the well-being of Christian and other communities by providing opportunities to spend time amidst the great diversity of the natural world.

What do we do?

As a focus for our mission, KTG has developed a programme of activities available across the Diocese of Southwark and beyond.  Our current activities include:

• Retreats at St Anne’s giving participants time to enjoy, reflect and pray, including time in Kew Gardens, theological input and choral evensong.
• Lectures held in the gardens or at St Anne’s which aim to tackle contemporary and environmental issues from a faith perspective.

For further information on KTG and our current schedule of events see our website:

https://www.kewtheologyandgardening.org.uk