Many faith groups identify care for creation – in some capacity – as a part of their core beliefs, rooted in sacred texts and possibly also historical tradition. Faith groups have, at times, used this grounding to work in significant ways toward climate action, or other critical issues of social justice – including gender and sexuality, peace and justice, newcomer support and others. At other times, however, faith groups have, far from leading the way, ahead of society, been actively resisting change on one or more issues, and focusing attention on items that hold back positive change, instead of being the leaders that I believe we are called to be.
Anecdotally, in my (unscientific) survey of activities in my circles, I see some action, in some ways – and significant gaps at the same time. Particularly as Mennonites, we may see ourselves as being leaders on climate action and social justice (and in some cases we are). Yet, at the same time, we have, in my opinion, some glaring gaps in our responses and actions: where we are doing what is cheap/easy/convenient, instead of what is right. I believe that we can do much more than what we have done so far. 🙂
Resources and Articles for Further Reading:
- Mennonite Creation Care Network
- The Future is Now: Faith-Based Responses to the Climate Crisis LSE
- 21 Ways Faith Groups Are Combating Global Warming
- Can religions help in the fight against climate change? Reuters
- Faith groups: Views on climate changeMajor religions and faith-based organizations have taken strong public positions on climate change leading up to the current COP21 negotiations in Paris. Yale
- Creation Justice Ministries – Link
- UN Environment: Religions and Environmental Protection – Link
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