I first became aware of A Rocha through attending the once annual services held at the WWT Martin Mere, at their North West Birdwatching Festival. I became more involved after visiting Cruzinha, A Rocha Portugal, and through the influence of people at my Church. I decided to embark on the CRES certificate course, to give me the structure to explore some of the theology relating to creation care, as it seemed to me that some sections of the Church did not look upon this as having any importance.
I have no scientific background and therefore initially decided that my optional modules would keep me as far away from science as possible. I therefore studied Globalisation, Salt and Light, and Food and Farming. However, I decided to take the Biodiversity module, and found it particularly enjoyable, being pitched at the right level for people with no science qualifications.
One of the most important aspects of the course is the opportunity it gives to meet with other like-minded people on a regular basis, as it is possible to feel quite isolated. The speakers on the study days were all of a high quality and the visits on the residential events were all interesting, I particularly enjoyed the visit to an organic farm on my last residential.
One of the things I liked about the course is the way it directed my reading, often through the influence of my tutor, to things I would not otherwise have come across. It has also left me, although I have completed the course, with many books still to read.