Climate and Faith

What You Need to Know

Foundational to many faith traditions is the belief that we are to care for the earth and all that is in it because it is sacred.

1. Our sacred texts and holy teachings call us to stewardship of the earth and all who depend on it. Climate change presents us with a moral and spiritual call to action.
2. Each mission and ministry of our faith is negatively impacted by our changing climate. Hunger, health, poverty, children’s welfare, and more are all made worse by the more frequent and devastating impacts of floods, drought, fire, and weather disasters.
3. Children, older adults, lower-income families, and communities of color often experience the first and worst climate impacts, while contributing the least to climate change. Climate change exacerbates injustices.
4. Solutions are here, now. From clean energy to protecting nature, effective solutions are available and accelerating.
5. People of faith are trusted messengers. When we talk, teach, and preach on climate change, we empower the 75% of Americans who are concerned about climate change.
6. People of faith are leading on climate in their homes, congregations, and communities. We are preparing for climate impacts, acting as sanctuaries, protecting natural spaces, and voting for candidates who make climate a priority.
7. When we address climate change, we all benefit. We are a part of a magnificent creation. When nature thrives, we flourish.

What You Need to Do

The most important thing to do to implement faith-based climate solutions is to get started, and then get others involved. We need everyone, every day.

1. Offer gratitude for the holy earth in prayer and praise. Take time to experience and celebrate creation by getting out into nature, which supports our bodies and minds, and heals our spirits.
2. Pray for guidance on how your faith community can deepen its commitment to caring for creation, who can help, and how to approach the planning process.
3. Join with others to build momentum and scale impact. Find and use the guidance on climate action and advocacy offered by your denomination. Connect and collaborate with other organizations working on climate solutions where you live.
4. Start with visible, easy changes in your congregation and home like conserving energy or planting a garden. Take visible action on climate solutions, and share results with your congregation. Use the Blessed Tomorrow Moving Forward Guide to help.
5. Talk about climate. Speak often about faith and creation care, and share this handout with others. Include creation justice in sermons, programs, and community meetings. Use the 5 Steps to Effective Climate Communications guide for effective approaches.
6. Use your voice and vote. Share your concerns with your community leaders and policymakers. Vote for candidates who will champion equitable climate solutions that protect God’s creation.
7. Become a Blessed Tomorrow Climate Ambassador. Help care for creation, protect your neighbors and communities, and ensure a prosperous, just, and secure future for all. The free online training and resources from our partner will empower and equip you to inspire fellow congregants, your workplace, community and policymakers to take meaningful action on climate change.