WCC news: Global Climate Action spotlight: Faith actors' crucial role echoes at COP28

In a COP28 side event at the Global Climate Action pavilion, WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay delivered a powerful message on the vital role of faith actors in driving practical and impactful climate action across the globe. Photo: Valter Muniz/WCC 3 December 2023 In his address, Pillay emphasised the unique perspective faith traditions bring to the often contentious UN climate negotiations. While debates over financial responsibilities escalate, faith communities introduce the lenses of compassion and justice, urging policymakers to safeguard human dignity and the sacredness of creation amidst the accelerating climate crisis. "In a broken and desecrated world, we seek right relations, reparation, and restoration," said Pillay. He framed the climate crisis as a moral and spiritual imperative, citing the WCC 11th Assembly statement that described the climate emergency as stemming from a fixation on profit. This ethical crisis requires a shift away from market-based solutions to address its root causes. While acknowledging the grim realities of climate science, Pillay underscored the role of faith communities in articulating a vision of solidarity, wholeness, and equitable resource sharing. He emphasised that faith-inspired networks have been at the forefront of practical climate action globally. Highlighting examples of faith-based initiatives, Pillay mentioned advocacy for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, the push for an Ecocide Law, and participation in the Interfaith Rainforest Initiative for forest protection. Faith communities are also engaged in land regeneration and sustainable living models. Pillay concluded: "Faith is the missing piece in the climate discussions and for climate action. Our liturgies, humanitarian responses, and sustainable practices inspire hope and drive impactful change." WCC photo gallery of the side event WCC special page on COP28 Indigenous youth advocate Julia Rensberg paves the way for climate resilience at COP28 Faith Pavilion (WCC news release, 3 December 2023) WCC general secretary: “At COP 28 we have to speak up for justice” (WCC news release 3 December 2023) At COP28, WCC general secretary hopes for “less talk and more walk” (WCC interview, 1 December 2023) Interfaith talanoa dialogue brings “ethical, moral, and spiritual voice” to COP28 (WCC news release, 30 November 2023) As COP28 begins, faith communities stand ready to push for climate justice (WCC news release, 30 November 2023) WCC executive committee statement on COP28's responsibility for climate justice "Confluence of Conscience: Uniting for Planetary Resurgence" - Abu Dhabi Interfaith Statement for COP28 See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland