May 20 coincides with the birthday of Anton Janša, who in the 18th century pioneered modern beekeeping techniques in his native Slovenia and praised the bees for their ability to work so hard, while needing so little attention.

In 2017 the United Nations designated May 20th as World Bee Day, and the first World Bee Day was celebrated in 2018.

According to the United Nations ” Observing World Bee Day on 20 May each year will draw attention to the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping people and the planet healthy. It provides an opportunity for governments, organizations, civil society and concerned citizens everywhere to promote actions that will protect and enhance pollinators and their habitats, improve their abundance and diversity, and support the sustainable development of beekeeping.”

All Hallows Guild has been taking efforts to promote the natural pollinator population in the Cathedral Gardens – including the installation of Osmia ‘blue orchard’ bees cocoons near the Bishop’s Garden and the installation of a new Pollinator Garden near the NCS Athletic Center.