Justice Matters:
Last week we finished with the hope that COP 26 is a force for justice. This week we look at what part we can choose to play
SEE: COP26 is coming to Glasgow. To understand more about it, try this link. We see the growing realisation that our world is in crisis – weather, forced migration, poverty, and war are visible. Numerous reports indicate that it is the people producing least greenhouse emissions that suffer most from the climate emergency. A Burundian will produce 0.027 tons of carbon dioxide annually, whilst a Canadian will produce over 16 tons. Philip Galgallo, Christian Aid's Director for Burundi says, “Burundi is a living testament to the injustice of the climate crisis, despite producing almost no carbon emissions, we find ourselves on the front line of climate change, suffering from higher temperatures, lower crop yields and increasingly unreliable rains." We see Pope Frances’ call that we heed the crisis of creation.
REFLECT: How much do you know about the crisis? How much do you understand the link between social justice and the climate crisis? How much do you want to know? Do you see it as relevant to life as a Christian? Your answers will shape what you do as you move forward.
ACTION: Perhaps if you are reading this you may be keen to do something but not really sure what to do? Many of us view ourselves as sympathetic bystanders. It can be a valuable role. People need a critical friend to bounce ideas off without being scared that they will be accused of being “woke”. It can give a sense of solidarity.
You may be keen to become more actively involved but are unsure what the first step should be – there are many local groups who are keen to recruit new members e. Greenpeace;
Global Justice.
Within the church, the
Laudato Si' movement offers a wealth of information and opportunities to become involved. It is clear that the Catholic Church is as good a place as any to start when it comes to becoming more active. Do we know where the church’s money is invested? Do we know it is not invested in countries which abuse human rights? How do we ensure our church’s money is not invested in fossil fuels?
Finally the
Laudato Si' movement offers us the opportunity to place Christ at the middle of this crisis and to work with the knowledge and understanding that we are following him when we take actions. This September our local group hopes to mark the season of creation with you all, as a celebration of the fact that we are part of a creation beautifully put together by a loving God, to be shared equitably by all.
Tricia Kaminski
