September 7, 2022
How to live on Country in a 21st Century way
Panninher man Rev Tim Matton-Johnson reflects in this video on the deep connection First Peoples have with the land, and what it means to live on Country in a 21st century way.
This reflection is part of a recent webinar presented by the Uniting Church National History Society, in collaboration with the University of Divinity, on the theme, 'History, Truth Telling, and the Uluru Statement from the Heart. It is used with permission. You can watch the whole webinar recording here.
From the Seeking Common Ground Circle
The climate crisis is one of the most, if not the most, complex and urgent challenges facing life on earth.
Working to address the imminent challenges posed by climate change is not only a scientific, economic and political task, but also a moral and spiritual imperative.
In recent decades, people of faith across the world have become increasingly vocal in adding their voices to those expressing deep concern for the consequences of climate change and calling for greater action to curb a warming climate.
The movement for climate justice has brought together in prayer and action faith communities that are united by a shared sense of call to be wise stewards of a complex, interrelated planet, and to ensure a sustainable future for the earth and for future generations.
Religious organisations have increasingly placed creation care at the centre of their work in recent years as climate action, environmental initiatives and eco-theology have more and more entered the mainstream of religious communities.
Many faith communities have already committed to divest from fossil fuels and invest in climate solutions. Some are working closely with vulnerable communities most disproportionately impacted by climate change to minimise the impacts and build resilience.
In Australia, people of faith have mobilised together to call for greater action on the climate crisis in large-scale, multi-faith and grassroots events like Sacred People, Sacred Earth and Faiths 4 Climate Justice.
We have also seen significant ecumenical and interfaith collaboration among religious leaders and communities through shared statements and initiatives that articulate shared convictions and advocate from a faith perspective for public policies which contribute to climate justice.
Below are some resources, statements and organisations giving shape to the ecumenical and interfaith movement for creation care and climate justice. You might like to engage and reflect on these with your own community.