Caring for Creation in Cavan: A Labour of Love

A Spiritual Reflection

The Gospels show us that Jesus often used metaphors and parables to teach about the Kingdom of God. In the parable of the sower (Luke 8:4–15; Matthew 13:1–23), the tending of the land reflects the tending of our souls. Both require God’s grace and our daily effort. Growth, care, and renewal lie at the heart of this process, inviting us into a labour of love for the Creator, for ourselves, and for one another.

Community Action in Cavan

The Kilmore Care of Creation Group is a community initiative bringing together members of the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Ireland. Over the past year, the group has worked closely with the Cavan Parish Pastoral Council, local volunteers, and partner organisations to develop and implement a shared vision for the Cathedral grounds.

Led by Patricia Keenan and Barry Kavanagh, the group recently completed a three-day planting project on the Cathedral site. This included the planting of 28 trees, along with a variety of plants, shrubs, and the creation of a mini-woodland area.

This work is the culmination of a year’s preparation, including participation in Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) Biodiversity and Leadership Training, alongside careful planning, collaboration, and stewardship of resources. The trees and plants were selected to enhance biodiversity while respecting the architectural and heritage setting of the Cathedral. Many of the species also carry rich Christian symbolism, deepening the spiritual dimension of the project.

A Haven for Nature and Worship

The overarching aim of this initiative is to balance the Cathedral grounds as a place of worship and heritage with its potential to become a haven for nature. A “Havens for Nature” resource will be made available to support this vision.

A tree map of both existing and newly planted trees will also be developed. This will provide parishioners and visitors with an opportunity to identify tree species, learn about their characteristics and ecological benefits, and explore their symbolic meaning within the Christian tradition.

In addition to the planting, a “rooms-based” approach to nature recovery will be introduced. This includes reducing mowing in selected areas to encourage the return of native Irish wildflowers. Further measures will include thoughtful hedgerow management, the use of natural herbicides, and initiatives to support birds and pollinators. Together, these actions reflect a commitment to the careful stewardship of the Cathedral grounds.

Looking Ahead

The Kilmore Care of Creation Group will continue to work in partnership with the Cavan Parish Pastoral Council and the Cathedral grounds caretaker. Plans are underway to establish a wider volunteer group to support ongoing work and to promote awareness, education, and practical action.

Future initiatives will include citizen science workshops, such as wildlife monitoring, biodiversity surveys, and the identification of native species. These activities will be offered in a spirit of fellowship, unity, and hospitality, fostering a shared sense of care for creation.

A Word of Thanks and Invitation

Bishop Martin Hayes, Fr. Kevin Fay, the Kilmore Care of Creation Group, and the Cavan Parish Pastoral Council wish to express their sincere gratitude to all who have contributed to and supported this initiative.

If you would like to get involved in volunteering on the Cathedral grounds, please contact:
[email protected]

or Patricia at +44 772 4050 618