Advertisement Messenger PublicationsMessenger Publications Would you like to advertise on ICN? Click to learn more.

Christians called to be prophetic over climate change


Christian Ecology Link, Operation Noah groups prepare to march - photo: ICN

Christian Ecology Link, Operation Noah groups prepare to march - photo: ICN

More than 150 Christians of all denominations gathered on Saturday for a special service at the Church of the Annunication, near Marble Arch to pray for the environment,before joining the National Climate Change March from Hyde Park to Westminster. The service was led by Revd Chris Brice, chair of Operation Noah.

Catholic Paul Bodenham, chair of Christian Ecology Link, said the Road to Emmaus reading was chosen because the disciples were going home dejected - as after Copenhagen - but their spirits are lifted by the presence of the Lord. The Bidding Prayers asked that we meet the challenge of promoting a zero carbon Britain by 2030 and that we appreciate biodioversity in thi sthe United Nations Year of Biodiversity.

In his address, Edward Echlin, author of 'Climate and Christ, A Prophetic Alternative' told the congregation: "We must be prophetic in speaking out about the climate. For those sceptical in the face of the cold weather - the snow at the moment could be feedback from a warming Arctic."

He said: "We need hope and the Earth needs hope. Earth and climate are God's gifts." Echlin added that despite the cold weather, this was a good time to plant broad beans, and gave out some Crimson flowered broad bean seeds.

At the end of the service, Revd Chris Brice, who is Priest in Charge of St Martin’s Anglican Church, in Gospel Oak, North West London, put on his rucksack, picked up his walking stick, and before the final blessing, ready to go out to the march said: "We've done the praying - now the acting.."

Among Catholics present were Sr Louisa Poole, a member of the Sisters of St Louis and Convenor of the Environment Committee of the National Board of Catholic Women; Sr Breda Maddigan of the Infant Jesus Sisters; Ellen Teague of Columban Justice and Peace; Richard Solly, Director of the London Mining Network, and others.

  Operation Noah has produced a study guide on Climate Change and the Church's Social Teaching called, 'Between the Flood and the Rainbow'. It is downloadable from: www.catholicsocialteaching.org.uk/themes/care-creation/resources/

Adverts

SPICMA

We offer publicity space for Catholic groups/organisations. See our advertising page if you would like more information.

We Need Your Support

ICN aims to provide speedy and accurate news coverage of all subjects of interest to Catholics and the wider Christian community. As our audience increases - so do our costs. We need your help to continue this work.

You can support our journalism by advertising with us or donating to ICN.

Mobile Menu Toggle Icon