COP31: A Call to Prayer for Climate Justice
Uniting Church congregations invited to pray for a just outcome at COP31
November 13, 2026
By Paul Wallbank
As world leaders gather for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, the Uniting Church in Australia invites congregations to pray for a just and meaningful outcome to the negotiations this Sunday.
Let us keep praying, advocating and caring for creation, trusting that together we can work towards a more just and hopeful future.
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The Uniting Church in Australia President, the Rev Charissa Suli, and NSW/ACT Synod Moderator, the Rev Faaimata (Mata) Havea Hiliau, are participating in the conference, presenting the Church's position on climate justice and supporting faith and Pacific communities.
The accompanying video message was recorded at COP31, where both leaders have been engaging with international church representatives, Pacific leaders, civil society and others working towards climate justice. Their presence builds on years of prayer, advocacy, practical action and relationships, particularly with Pacific Church partners and through the Church's covenants with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC).
Beyond Climate
Climate change is not simply an environmental issue. It is a matter of justice, human dignity and discipleship. For our Pacific neighbours, the impacts of climate change are already being felt through rising sea levels, extreme weather and growing threats to communities, cultures and livelihoods.
At COP31, the Church is bringing a faith perspective into conversations that can otherwise become dominated by technical and political considerations. Our faith asks important questions: What do we owe our neighbours? What does justice require? How do we faithfully care for God's creation?
There is much at stake. Negotiators are considering stronger action to keep the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees within reach, including a transition away from fossil fuels. There is also an urgent need to ensure climate finance reaches vulnerable communities, enabling them to make the transition to a more sustainable future.
Every congregation has a part to play
Our prayers, advocacy and practical action at home are connected to the work taking place at COP31. We are invited to stand alongside Pacific communities and all those seeking climate justice.
This Sunday, congregations across the Uniting Church are encouraged to watch and share the accompanying video message and pray together for a just outcome to COP31.
Let us keep praying, advocating and caring for creation, trusting that together we can work towards a more just and hopeful future.
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