WCC News: WCC joins global faith efforts for women's health amid climate crisis

In a session held at COP 28's Faith Pavilion, the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Green Hope Foundation collaborated to shed light on the urgent need for interfaith feminist actions addressing climate change's disproportionate impact on women and girls.

Dr Manoj Kurian, coordinator of the WCC Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance, delivered a message in a COP28 side event titled "Interfaith Feminist Climate Justice for the Human Right to a Healthy Society and Environment.” Photo: Valter Hugo Muniz/WCC 5 December 2023 Titled "Interfaith Feminist Climate Justice for the Human Right to a Healthy Society and Environment,” the panel featured insights from various faith traditions, emphasising the collective responsibility to address the challenges posed by climate change. Among the panel of experts, Dr Manoj Kurian, coordinator of the WCC Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance, delivered a message on the health crisis exacerbated by climate change. "Climate change is having a massive impact on all humanity's nutrition, health, and wellbeing. But the most significant burden is borne by women and girls." He emphasised that Christians believe all creation is interconnected as one unified body. “Women and girls, who are half of humanity, are suffering disproportionally. In one body, if one part is in distress while another is at ease, it is incorrect to claim that, on average, the entire body is fine! Within the body of Christ, there are no averages. Let us collectively address inequities and alleviate suffering." Kurian concluded his intervention at the side event with a call for action: “Let us be grateful for the continuing and tremendous contributions of mothers, sisters, and daughters. As communities, societies, and nations, let us increase investments in women's health and build systems that overcome vulnerabilities caused by climate change. Transformation starts with us as individuals and in families."  WCC special page on COP28 Global Climate Action spotlight: Faith actors' crucial role echoes at COP28 (WCC news release, 3 December 2023) 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

Presbyterians for Earth Care - Please Vote Today! Nominations for PEC Steering Committee

Presbyterians for Earth Care Steering Committee Election   We are happy to present the nominees for positions on the 2024 PEC Steering Committee.  If you are a member of PEC, or if you have donated to PEC, you are eligible to cast your vote in the Steering Committee Election.  (If you are not a member or donor to PEC, you can find more information about becoming a member HERE.)  Voting takes place online and will end on January 21, 2024. For 2-Year Terms:   Jane Laping (Vice Moderator) Jane Laping started on the PEC Steering Committee in 2010 and then served as Vice Moderator of PEC from 2012-2014. In 2015 she became PEC’s part-time Coordinator and held that position for six years. Jane is also active at the local and state level, leading the Creation Care Team at her church in Asheville, NC, heading the Earth Care Team of the Presbytery of Western North Carolina (WNC), and is on the Steering Team of the Creation Care Alliance of WNC.   Courtenay Willcox (Northeast Regional Rep.) Courtenay’s passion around environmental issues is the third leg of a stool that also includes family and God. She moderated her church’s Environmental Justice Committee, founded a local interfaith green group, and partners with PA IPL to share resources with regional faith institutions. A recent seminary graduate with a certificate in environmental theology, she currently serves Tree of Life Church in Springfield, PA as a transitional pastor. And, for her, there is nothing like a sunrise walk on the beach!   Sam Hamilton-Poore (South Atlantic Regional Rep.)  Sam Hamilton-Poore is pastor of the Montevallo Presbyterian Church in Montevallo, AL. His church is a long-time Earth Care Congregation in the PCUSA. He is also the author of "Earth Gospel: A Guide to Prayer for God's Creation" (Upper Room Books) and a spiritual director.  His wife Terry is also a Presbyterian minister and serves as pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, AL. For 1-Year Term:   Matthias Peterson-Brandt (North Central Rep.) Rev. Matthias Peterson-Brandt (he/him) ministers with the faithful folks of Cherokee Park United Church, a PCUSA/UCC congregation on the west side of St. Paul. TCPUC was awarded the “Restoring Creation Award” in 2021 by Presbyterians for Earth Care for over a decade of dedicated creation care efforts across many fronts—solar panel installation, eco-centric facilities upgrades, advocacy for climate legislation, and creative earth-centered worship services.  For more detailed information about the candidates, CLICK HERE.   Click Here to Vote SAVE THE DATE! 2024 PEC Annual Meeting   Hear about what PEC has been up to, give input on future plans, and meet the members of the 2024 Steering Committee.  More information coming soon!

How can we help you care for God’s creation?  Drop us an email and let us know at presbyearthcare@gmail.com   Help us grow! Please let us know if there is anyone we should add to our list!  Just reply to this email.  Thank you! Please help us to continue to assist individuals and churches in creation care work by donating to PEC through our website by CLICKING HERE.  Thank you!

Copyright © 2023 Presbyterians for Earth Care, All rights reserved.

National Council of Churches - Take the "I'm a Peacemaker" Pledge

December 3, 2023 Take the Pledge! Click HERE to take the pledge!

Follow the National Council of Churches on Our Social Media Platforms to Receive Daily Bible Readings and Updates on the Work of NCC. You can now follow NCC (@nccc.usa) on Threads, too!

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

WCC news: Indigenous youth advocate Julia Rensberg paves the way for climate resilience at COP28 Faith Pavilion

Julia Rensberg, a passionate advocate for youth and Indigenous Sami communities from the Church of Sweden, took centre stage at the Faith Pavilion's side event on “Interfaith Youth Dialogue on Climate Justice, Promoting Resilience and Hope.” Julia Rensberg, from the Church of Sweden. Photo: Valter Muniz/WCC 3 December 2023 Drawing from real-life experiences and case studies, a panel of speakers showcased the impact of their on-the-ground efforts and support of the most vulnerable populations. The discussion connected the challenges faced by communities with lessons learned, transforming them into opportunities for creating innovative solutions to address climate impacts and foster sustainable societies. Rensberg delivered a powerful message: "Adaptation to the climate crisis is a luxury. People living on the margins cannot afford it, as the consequences of the climate crisis are already a harsh reality. Recognising that life depends on the earth's health is not just a holistic view but a solution." Highlighting Indigenous peoples' sacred relationship with the land, Rensbergemphasised that their way of living with nature is vital to just and sustainable adaptation. "Our way of living with nature protects water resources, biodiversity, forests, and oceans. The trees are our planet's best-working lungs, storing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen to us. Protecting the earth is protecting life – a truth for Indigenous people and all of us." WCC special page on COP28 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

Today in the Mission Yearbook - The PC(USA)’s Christian Formation Collective sees the forest for the trees

Witness, Share and Evangelize: Today in the Mission Yearbook - The PC(USA)’s Chri...: Leaders feed an ecosystem of nonprofits that support age and stage ministries December 2, 2023 Leaders in the Christian Formation Collective...