Churches can be signs of hope

In the face of the huge challenge of climate change, churches can be signs of hope. That is the conclusion of the 7th assembly of the European Christian Environmental Network (ECEN), which met in Milan in September.

The assembly launched a climate change appeal to the churches of Europe, urging church leaders of each denomination, region and community of Europe to develop their own comprehensive road map, with timescales and clear goals, to help ameliorate global warming. These road maps should –

include ecology and climate change in all ministerial training

initiate eco-management programmes which reduce energy, water and transport use, promote renewable alternatives and include biodiversity or conservation projects

monitor government, EU and UN discussions and decisions on climate change and engage with their political representatives in response

For further info see www.ecen.org