The Social Justice Committee of the Diocese of El Camino Real believes climate change is a serious threat to our planet and wishes to offer information about what we can do. Therefore we are disseminating this article from the Episcopal News Service so that more people may receive the information.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused massive damage and loss of life in the southeastern United States, even in places that were considered safe from hurricanes. Climate change exacerbated their strength and devastation. Climatologists say more catastrophic storms are expected in the future as global temperatures continue to rise.

So what can churches do? Individuals and congregations working alone can have little impact, but the Episcopal Church working together can made a real difference. Andrew Thompson, associate professor of ethics and director of the Center for Religion & Environment at the Sewanee School of Theology, facilitated a webinar on “Churches and Climate Change After Helene,” on Oct. 23, 2024.

Thompson mentioned that the 81st General Convention in June 2024 passed Resolution B002, “Build Eco-Region Creation Networks for Crucial Impact,” which calls on The Episcopal Church to create a pilot program of three “Eco-Region Creation Networks” that would link Episcopalians across dioceses and institutions as they implement nature-based mitigation strategies to climate change. The networks would focus on the transformation of food systems, restoring and preserving native biodiversity, monitoring water quality and conserving water supply. In September, Executive Council’s Joint Budget Committee recommended spending $90,000 to establish the networks. Presiding Bishop-elect Sean Rowe affirmed the investment.

From the Episcopal News Service, October 23, 2024

Photograph by Denniz Futalan, via Pexels