When it comes to influencing decision-makers, churches and Christian organisations have a powerful voice. Not only are we involved in and committed to our local communities, but our membership represents the full breadth and diversity of society.
What's more, by considering everyone's circle of influence, we can help schools, businesses, charities and neighbourhoods engage with the climate emergency, and we can connect with local climate groups and campaigners, sharing our hope and partnering for lasting change.
Impact.
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Support and empower everyone in your church family to champion climate action wherever they already are, and to pray for change.
‘My friend Mel and I decided to start Taunton Green Parents [and] the group’s membership exploded: people were just waiting to find others who cared too. Within just a few months we met our MP, found other groups who were working on climate change and together were able to support Taunton council in declaring a climate emergency.’
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Laura Glass
Taunton Green Parents
About the Impact step
Climate change will only be addressed effectively by action at every level: international bodies, national and local governments, all the way down to individuals. We need to have with us as many voices, talents and experiences as possible: everyone taking action where they are, in their workplaces, schools, communities and constituencies.
As part of making your plan of action, work with your team to discover how each member of your church or organisation can use their influence in four directions:
Upwards
As a church, you can influence leaders and decision-makers, people with power, to make significant change.
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Outwards
Consider how you can support those in your church to champion climate action where they already are, and encourage the church to pray regularly for them.
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Alongside
Consider those you serve alongside – suppliers, mission partners, churches, organisations – and who you can stand alongside in prayer. And commmit to standing alongside your global neighbours – and all of creation – in prayer.
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Together
There are likely to be many local community groups advocating for climate action in your area, and even groups in other local churches who would love to connect with you and work together.
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Download the full toolkit for more details on each step and the tools you’ll need along the way.
‘Climate change directly threatens the lives of millions of people. If your church is serious about loving people, it has to be serious about climate change.’
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Dr Tim Gordon
Marine biologist and Honorary Research Fellow, University of Exeter