Every day, in the places we live, and around the world, we hear stories of heartache, loss and human cruelty. And every day, across the URI Network, Cooperation Circles are living stories of peace, justice and healing – Rev. Lauren Van Ham • Climate Action Coordinator of United Religions Initiative invites all interested URI Cooperation Circles (CCs) and Friends to join the URI Climate Action.
In more and more countries, people are rallying for laws that protect the rights of nature. “Ecocide” is a term to describe the massive destruction being done to eco-systems everywhere. It is the result of the harmful and polluting practices of multi-national corporations and horribly short-sighted political decisions. Just as Soil, Birds and Trees work together to create a healthy eco-system, Peace, Justice and Healing work together to create healthy communities. We need both — healthy communities protecting healthy eco-systems AND thriving eco-systems supporting thriving communities.
Do you remember, the “Drawdown Solutions”? Sometimes, caring for Earth doesn’t look like planting a garden. It can also mean helping girls stay in school or working for gender equity. Working to restore Earth and taking good care of one other are almost always related.
In a few weeks, just before World Environment Day, the Stockholm+50 conference will happen in Sweden. This UNEP gathering honors its 50 years of existence and will be two days of important meetings about the health of our planet’s eco-systems as well as global greenhouse gas emission targets.
Has your CC made plans for honoring June 5th, World Environment Day? How is your community creating Peace, Justice and Healing by also tending the Soil, Trees or other Earth restoration activity? When we think globally and act locally, we become the change and embody the prayer.
If your CC is doing a project to restore or protect an eco-system, or if you are actively working to reach one of the environmentally-focused Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), please check out the WEBSITE that helps track the great work environmental action happening, thanks to faith groups, interfaith collaboration and indigenous practices. You can share your project by completing the SUBMISSION FORM.
I love hearing from you and our efforts are stronger when we share them and learn together. Please send your stories if you are looking for a resource or want to be in communication with other CCs working to restore Earth.
