Rowan Williams leads climate prayers outside Parliament
Source: Christian Aid
The former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, was joined by Bishops, MPs and Peers for a prayer vigil calling for action on climate change outside Parliament on Wednesday morning.
The event was part of a global prayer chain which is seeing people around the world praying for action to tackle the climate crisis, every day between the start of Lent and the COP26 climate summit taking place in Glasgow this November.
Dr Williams, who is now Chair of Christian Aid, said: "It's clear that the impact of climate change on the poorest people in the world drives instability, injustice and conflict. Where climate justice is concerned we're summoned to acknowledge the consequences of our actions. Its only when we're truthful of that, are we free to see clearly and act courageously.
He added: "We need the churches, we need our political leaders, we need civil society, we need our own hearts to be touched. If we are to respond effectively to the challenges of our world, we need to respond with our spirits cleared and our action open, courageous and lucid."
Also speaking at the vigil was 23-year-old activist Hannah Abban. She said: "Climate change is a human problem. Even as an activist, as I speak to you all today I stand here with privilege. I don't go outside and see my crops have failed. I don't live in a low-lying country where citizens live in perpetual fear. We can technically go on the way we are living in, wastefully and in luxury without having to fear immediate repercussions.
"It's important for us to educate ourselves on the problem at hand but also to explore solutions and what part we can play within the bigger picture. I am privileged to currently be part of Christian Aid's Prophetic Activists scheme. A chance to put my faith into action and unite with likeminded people to create change."
People and churches can sign up to take part in the prayer chain by visiting: www.caid.org.uk/prayerchain.