4 Climate Achievements of 2015 and 4 Climate Initiatives for 2016!
Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne. He covers the night as a veil over the day, each seeking the other in swift succession. He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be God, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds! – (Quran 7:54)
This verse from Surah Al-A'raf is a popular one for recitation during New Year celebrations, which occurred months ago in the Islamic calendar though its relevancy is still felt today.
A new year is upon us, offering an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, setbacks and most importantly, to plan for the year ahead. Here are some exciting climate highlights from past year:
Pope Francis Encyclical on creation care changed the way we discuss climate change in America and around the world. With a strong moral message to care for 'our common home,' Pope Francis highlighted the importance of protecting God's creation within the Catholic tradition and beyond.
During his first visit stateside since taking the papal appointment in 2013, Pope Francis spoke to Congress and the U.N. about the importance of legislative action at COP21. Being noted as the 'Francis Affect,' a Yale survey uncovered that his visit directly attributed to a 9% increase in climate support among American citizens.
Placing the U.S. on a course to reduce carbon emissions by 30%, President Obama moved swiftly to turn the tide on climate talks in the U.S., vetoing Keystone XL just months before.
Blessed Tomorrow's parent company, ecoAmerica, released Let's Talk Climate, an extensive report on climate communicating to faith communities and beyond. Through data-driven research, ecoAmerica developed groundbreaking new initiatives for communicating on climate to your congregation. Check it ou today!
Alas, with every year's reflection, comes an opportunity to plan ahead. Here's what you can do to make 2016 an even bigger year for the climate.
Faith leaders are stronger when they work together, which is why we have developed a platform that connects climate leaders and provides materials for their creation care initiatives
Check out our materials on hosting a creation care event at your faith facility, and how to organize a successful campaign.
You don't want that creation care event to be isolated to your community; you want to connect with other faith groups who care just as much about the climate as you do. Here is how.
Regardless of your faith tradition, our how-to-guide on crafting a climate sermon will get you on the path to positive change, and teach you how to bring your congregation ith you.
2015 was a great year that will lead into another great year for climate action, but it isn't eneough. We need every faith leader to take charge, and move on their moral responsibility to care for our common home. Don't hesitate, act today for a Blessed Tomorrow!
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12