EarthBeat Weekly: US Catholics assess future harm from climate change

US Catholics assess future harm from climate change Your weekly newsletter about faith and climate change November 3, 2023   Activists mark the start of Climate Week in New York City Sept. 17, during a demonstration calling for the U.S. government to take action toward ending fossil fuel use in order to reduce the impact of global climate change. (OSV News/Reuters/Eduardo Munoz) Survey data doesn't provide us with the full context and complexity of a situation, but it is a convenient way to assess the general public's opinions and experiences.  In the past year, the Pew Research Center has twice asked Americans how they feel about various aspects of climate change. The reported results of those polls didn't include information about respondents' religious affiliations. But when requested, Pew has sent EarthBeat specific data about how Catholics responded so that we could include that information in our reporting.  On many points, the Catholic responses reflect the same trends seen in the general population of U.S. adults. We're often more likely to see differentiation along lines of political affiliation, age, race and ethnicity than we are due to religion. So I always take note when the Catholic responses do vary significantly from the other respondents, like they did for a few of the questions in Pew's recent study on "How Americans View Future Harms From Climate Change in Their Community and Around the U.S." NCR staff reporter Aleja Hertzler-McCain reported that according to the new Pew survey, U.S. Catholics are more likely than other U.S. adults to be: optimistic that we can address climate change; motivated to address the crisis; suspicious of groups pushing for action on climate change. U.S. Catholics are more likely than other U.S. adults to think: climate activism is effective in influencing elected officials;  individual Americans can reduce the effects of climate change. U.S. Catholics report less support than other U.S. adults for climate scientists' influence in public policy debates. Read more: Pew study: US Catholics more motivated by climate news than other Americans Other recent survey reports on EarthBeat include: "Survey: US religious groups do not view climate change as a crisis," by RNS national reporter and senior editor Yonat Shimron, Oct. 11. "Poll: US Catholics' views on climate show no significant 'Laudato Si'' effect years later," by OSV national reporter Kate Scanlon, Oct. 4. "Despite pope's pleas, survey finds US Catholics support fossil fuel expansion more than rest of country," by NCR environment correspondent Brian Roewe, June 28. What else is new on EarthBeat: Pope Francis to travel to Dubai to address UN climate summit by Christopher White Pope Francis said he will attend the United Nations' COP28 climate change conference in Dubai next month, becoming the first pontiff to ever address such a high-level summit. Economic impacts of climate change drive workers in Bangladesh to modern slavery by Stephan Uttom Rozario In Bangladesh, the long-term climate and economic impacts of storms lead to to reliance on moneylenders through an arrangement that has been compared to modern slavery. Why 2 ministers stood up to disrupt an investment industry conference by Amy Brooks Paradise, Chelsea MacMillan On Oct. 23, we said a silent prayer and then interrupted a speaker at a conference of investment industry leaders. We stood on our chairs and unfurled a banner that demanded Vanguard stop funding fossil fuels. Floods did not dampen the spirit of the Pakistani people by Emer Manning During the 2022 floods in Pakistan, we Presentation Sisters listened to the grief of the people and also heard about their efforts to survive. The resilience of the people was truly amazing. In Benin, Voodoo's birthplace, believers bemoan steady shrinkage of forests they revere as sacred by Sam Mednick, The Associated Press As economic development threatens woodlands, communities struggle to protect the spirits believed to live within them. What's happening in other climate news: "Global Discord Threatens COP28 Climate Talks, EU Commissioner Says" — Alexander Cornwell for Reuters It's unlikely, but not impossible, to limit global warming to 1.5 Celsius, study finds — Rebecca Hersher for NPR Louisiana was open to Cancer Alley concessions. Then EPA dropped its investigation — Michael Phillis for The Associated Press Saleemul Huq, climate change ‘revolutionary’ from Bangladesh, dies at 71 — William Branigin for The Washington Post Final Beat: Monday, Oct. 30, marked EarthBeat's 4th anniversary! Thank you to all who have contributed to our mission to bring you stories where ecological concern and moral conviction meet.  The importance of telling stories about the climate crisis, faith and action has only grown since EarthBeat's launch in 2019. If you would like to make a donation gift in honor of EarthBeat's 4th anniversary, you can do so here. Thanks for reading EarthBeat! Stephanie Clary Environment Editor National Catholic Reporter sclary@ncronline.org Instagram: @stephanieclaryncr Twitter/X: @scherp01   Featured Advertisers   Study for an Online Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies at a historic Canadian Catholic university. No international fees. Scholarships available. Apply now for Winter 2024.  Need fresh ideas for your homilies?  More than 900 relevant and practical homilies at www.seedsforsowing.weebly.com

WCC News: WCC central committee young leader inspires African legislators to fight corruption and promote tax transparency

Brian Muyunga, a youth member of the World Council of Churches central committee representing the Anglican Church of Uganda and executive secretary of youth at the All Africa Conference of Churches, shared an uplifting message in a gathering of over 120 African lawmakers from 40 countries. Brian Muyunga speaking at the 2023 African Parliamentarians Network on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation event. 02 November 2023 The 2023 African Parliamentarians Network on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation organised by the Tax Justice Network Africa, aimed to bring together African legislators to join forces in the fight against illicit financial flows and unfair tax practices on the continent. During a discussion on "Promoting Tax Transparency in Africa," Muyunga highlighted the critical role of legislators in making taxes more transparent and fair for all. He explained that they do more than pass tax laws; they ensure we all have access to clear information about taxes, government budgets, and fair tax practices. The State of Tax Justice 2021 by the Global Alliance for Tax Justice and Public Services International estimated that Africa lost USD 17.1 billion in 2021 due to tax evasion. Furthermore, the 2015 Thabo Mbeki panel report on illicit financial flows from Africa indicated that the continent loses an estimated $50 billion to $80 billion annually through illicit financial flows. These losses make it harder for governments to provide vital services like education and healthcare and to reduce poverty and inequality. Muyunga stressed that paying taxes is a characteristic of good stewards of God’s creation and a moral obligation of every citizen of the Kingdom of God. He encouraged lawmakers to ensure people get quality services from their governments, fight against big companies avoiding taxes, and demand that they pay what's due. One legislator in the discussion pointed out that corruption within African governments is a big challenge to promoting tax transparency. In his response, Muyunga encouraged lawmakers not to give up and to be brave in calling out corrupt individuals within the government who are causing harm. Zacchaeus Campaign for Tax Justice and Reparations 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

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Liberty Community Church in Minneapolis is using the PC(USA)’s Matthew 25 invitation to bring healing to its neighborhood

Witness, Share and Evangelize: Today in the Mission Yearbook - Liberty Community ...: The only African American-led PC(USA) church in Minnesota ministers to human trafficking victims and people living in poverty November 2, 20...

WCC News: Patriarchate of Jerusalem gravely concerned over Israeli shelling targeting of civilian infrastructure in Gaza

The World Council of Churches (WCC) is standing in solidarity with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which issued a statement on 31 October condemning the Israeli military’s bombardment of the Orthodox Cultural Center in the Tel Al Hawa neighborhood of Gaza. Tel Al Hawa neighborhood in Gaza after the bombardment.  Photo: Patriarchate of Jerusalem 02 November 2023 In this statement, the Patriarchate emphasizes that this attack represents a stark embodiment of Israel’s unwarranted determination to destroy the civil infrastructure and social service centers, as well as shelters for civilians trapped in the besieged enclave. “The Patriarchate highlights that social, cultural, and sports centers have become vital providers of essential humanitarian services and safe havens for those affected by Israeli airstrikes targeting residential areas,” reads the statement. “The Patriarchate further expressed that this assault on the Orthodox Cultural Center and its service facilities constitutes a direct and unjustified attack on one of the pillars of culture and social services in Gaza.” The Patriarchate also noted with grave concern that the Israeli military has targeted 19 places of worship, including mosques and churches in Gaza. “Such attacks on civilians, particularly children, and the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, cannot be justified on rational or humanitarian grounds and are fundamentally at odds with even the most basic moral values,” reads the statement. “The Patriarchate reiterates its firm demand for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and pledges to continue its international efforts to achieve this goal as soon as possible.” WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed solidarity with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. “Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are in clear violation of international law,” said Pillay. “We stand with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem and many around the world who are calling to protect places of refuge, and to stop injuring and killing innocent people.” The Patriarchate of Jerusalem: Israeli Shelling of Orthodox Cultural Center Embodies Unjustifiable Targeting of Civilian Infrastructure in Gaza WCC stands in solidarity with Jerusalem heads of churches in urgent call to protect places of refuge (WCC news release, 23 October 2023) WCC condemns attack on building adjacent to St Porphyrios Greek Orthodox Church in Gaza (WCC news release 20 October 2023) WCC calls for urgent humanitarian response in Gaza and UN-Led criminal investigation (WCC news release 19 October 2023) WCC outraged at news of attack on hospital in Gaza, calls for justice and human dignity (WCC news release 17 October 2023) WCC calls for immediate ceasefire, urgent humanitarian aid for Gaza (WCC news release 15 October 2023) WCC, Jerusalem Heads of Churches invite all to global prayer day (WCC news release 15 October 2023) Jerusalem Heads of Churches urge addressing humanitarian crisis in Gaza (WCC news release 13 October 2023) WCC calls for a new approach to conflict in Palestine and Israel (WCC news release 13 October 2023) 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

WCC news: WCC voices support of UN resolution condemning ongoing blockade imposed on Cuba

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, in a letter to the United Nations General Assembly, voiced support for a resolution condemning the ongoing blockade imposed on the Republic of Cuba.  A flooded street in Havana, Cuba. Photo: Sean Hawkey/Life on Earth 1 November 2023 “As an organization dedicated to promoting justice, peace, and solidarity among nations, we firmly believe that the blockade against Cuba runs counter to the principles of international law, justice, and human rights that the United Nations stands for,” wrote Pillay. “For over six decades, the people of Cuba have endured economic hardships, limitations on access to essential goods, and restrictions on their right to self-determination due to this protracted embargo.” Pillay further noted that these measures have had a significant impact on the lives of ordinary Cubans. The World Council of Churches believes that it is imperative for the international community to express its collective disapproval of such punitive measures that affect the most vulnerable members of society, and which are counter to human rights and dignity,” he wrote. “Furthermore, we would like to emphasize our hope that the United Nations General Assembly takes this opportunity to consider the supporting the removal of Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism.” The World Council of Churches would like to see a more inclusive and constructive relationship between the United States and Cuba, added Pillay. “Removing Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism would be a meaningful step towards normalizing relations and fostering cooperation on issues of global importance, including climate change, public health, and economic development,” he wrote. “We believe these actions will promote peace, justice, and solidarity among nations, which are fundamental principles that both the World Council of Churches and the United Nations hold dear.” The United Nations General Assembly will debate the issue on 1 November, and vote on 2 November. Read the full letter WCC extends support for UN resolution to end blockade that harms Cuban people (WCC news release 4 November 2022) 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

WCC News: WCC meets with Right Livelihood to plan joint climate justice work

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay met with Right Livelihood executive director Ole von Uexkuell and Right Livelihood board chair Rev. Dr Gunilla Hallonsten on 30 October. On 30 October, Rev. Dr Gunilla Hallonsten, Dean at the Church of Sweden in Malmö and Chair of the Right Livelihood Board, and Ole von Uexküll, Right Livelihood Executive Director, met with with WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay. Photo: Grégoire de Fombelle/WCC 01 November 2023 Right Livelihood, which describes itself as a courage-powered community for social change, annually bestows awards to individuals or organizations, to recognize “the actions of brave visionaries and building impactful connections around the world.” The WCC and Right Livelihood discussed mutual support and synergies, particularly involvement in the global network of laureates, as well as initiatives related to climate justice and peacebuilding. The WCC and the Right Livelihood organized a day-long seminar on 12 May, offered in a hybrid format, to support and empower churches and faith-based communities respond more effectively to the challenges of environmental degradation and climate change. WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay said after the meeting “Right Livelihood has many areas that mutually overlap with WCC’s priority of addressing climate-related issues for positive social change and include the local actors like religious leaders and communities. We are extremely keen about working together in areas of peace and caring for the earth and creation. Most commendable is Right Livelihood`s focus on practical information and involvement when it comes to climate justice.”  Pillay underlined the need for “forming collaborative partnerships has the potential to create a high impact in making a sustainable difference and solving global problems.” He added,“ we look forward to working with Right Livelihood on issues of common interests to make a difference in the world.”  Right Livelihood executive director Ole von Uexkull and Right Livelihood board chair Rev. Dr Gunilla Hallonsten stressed the importance of faith-based approaches in working for sustainability. Hallonsten said she was “impressed with the work that Churches around the world do to for climate justice. And I see much more potential.” Uexkull added that he looked forward to “linking faith-based actors with Right Livelihood Laureates to mutually strengthen their work on the ground”. WCC general secretary Pillay was accompanied by WCC director of Communication Marianne Ejdersten and Rev. Nathan Day Wilson, WCC manager, of Income Monitoring & Development. Right Livelihood's von Uexkull wants WCC-hosted re-greening event to spur global movement (WCC interview, 16 May 2023) Environmental care driven by faith is core to Tony Rinaudo for Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (WCC feature story, 15 May 2023) What will it take to re-green our earth? Daylong seminar sparks ideas and inspiration to act (WCC news release, 15 May 2023) Photo gallery of the seminar "Caring for the Earth, Transforming Lives: Linking Faith & Natural Regeneration" On 30 October, Rev. Dr Gunilla Hallonsten, Dean at the Church of Sweden in Malmö and Chair of the Right Livelihood Board, and Ole von Uexküll, Right Livelihood Executive Director, met with with WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay. Photo: Grégoire de Fombelle/WCC 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

Today in the Mission Yearbook - PC(USA) partner discusses ministering on the margins in Madagascar

Witness, Share and Evangelize: Today in the Mission Yearbook - PC(USA) partner di...: Gifts to the Peace & Global Witness Offering help stop human trafficking and the exploitation of children November 1, 2023 Rose As a mer...