How hot did you say? Extreme heat is underlining the need for climate action. There’s positive progress for which to give thanks – like the commitments to net zero targets, new developments in technology, investor action and increased use of renewables. But there are also roadblocks being set along the way … it’s an important time to pray!
The past month has seen worrying reports about unprecedented declines in nature, greater-than-expected melting of polar ice, and decreased investment in renewables. It’s also seen more churches and other groups divest from fossil fuels, several countries considering or committing to ambitious net zero targets, and a turn away from coal in New York State. Much to lament … give thanks for … pray for …
Once again we lament a cyclone in Mozambique – and the suffering caused to people in many places by climate impacts. Animals, too, are suffering, as seen in the collapse of an emperor penguin colony. But we continue to pray and we take hope, in this Eastertide, from signs of change in the UK, the financial sector, and a burgeoning Swedish movement to reduce flying.
We lament the destruction caused by Cyclone Idai and pollution in Mongolia … but find Easter hope in youth activism, technological innovations, and initiatives to press countries to strengthen their Paris pledges.
Lent begins … and with it come materials to help us make care for creation part of our Lenten living. We also pray for those affected by heat and fires around the world, and both pray for and give thanks for signs of new hope in movements like Forest Church and the climate strikes undertaken by schoolchildren.
We pray for the outcomes of the UN climate talks in Katowice, for areas experiencing global heating, about declining wildlife locally and worldwide, for Greta Thunberg and the school climate strikes, and for UK Christians to ‘show the love’ in asking MPs for climate action.
Pray for the UN climate talks and for work to preserve the glorious diversity of creation, give thanks for scientists’ work, and pray that people everywhere may recognise the need for urgent action.
Praying about the IPCC 1.5 degrees report, plastics pollution, adaptation to a changing climate and more.
Praying for the Season of Creation, those affected by storms, preparations for COP 24 and more …