Coventry: churches launch climate change campaign

Hundreds of Christian campaigners from all denominations will process through Coventry, wearing rainbow colours, on Saturday 9 October for the official launch of Operation Noah, the new Church-led Climate Change Campaign. The day is organised by Christian Ecology Link (CEL) on behalf of the Environmental Issues Network of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI). It is open to people of any religious belief, or none. Both the Methodist Conference and the General Assembly of the United Reformed Church have pledged support for Operation Noah. Internationally recognised experts in the field of climate change will speak at a morning conference and Church groups will be equipped on how to tackle this crucially important issue for the future of the whole Earth community. Christians are asked to sign a Climate Covenant calling on the UK government to lead negotiations tackling climate change; also to undertake personal lifestyle changes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They are being urged to create a climate of justice for the poor and future generations. The morning conference takes place at Coventry Methodist Central Hall, Bull Yard from 9.45am - 12.40pm. The rainbow procession will set off at 2pm from Methodist Central Hall, through the streets of central Coventry to the ruins of the old Cathedral, destroyed in World War II and preserved as a symbol of reconciliation. A spokesperson said: "The title of the procession recalls God's promise to every living creature in the rainbow covenant (Gen. 9.8-17) and reminds human society of its responsibility to care for the Earth. Participants will be dressed in rainbow colours." The service will take place at 2.30 in Coventry cathedral. Bishop John Oliver, retired Anglican Bishop of Hereford is to preside. Dr David Hallman , who co-ordinates the World Council of Churches climate change programme will give a talk during the Cathedral Service. Local schoolchildren will sing songs from 'Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo'. Places at the morning conference must be booked. Call CEL on 01524 33858 or 01949 861 516 or email info@christian-ecology.org.uk See: www.christian-ecology.org.uk for further information.