Growing up in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, Rev. José Martín Matos Hernández witnessed climate change’s impact firsthand. Eroding coastlines and drying rivers were all around him. For the locals, nature wasn’t just scenery; it was central to life and joy. Matos Hernández noted, “In a small town like ours, nature was our entertainment and our workplace.”
However, everything changed in 2017 when Hurricanes Irma and María hit back-to-back. The devastation left long-lasting scars, and even years later, Puerto Rico’s water infrastructure is fragile, with contamination threatening both drinking water and local fisheries.
For many in Cabo Rojo and similar communities, faith offers hope in trying times. In response to these challenges, the Center for Climate Justice and Faith launched a Spanish-language certificate program in 2023. Conducted entirely online, this initiative helps religious leaders across Latin America and the Caribbean address climate issues. Since its founding in 2021, over 144 leaders from 32 countries have already participated in its English-language program.
Rev. Neddy Astudillo, who coordinates the Spanish program and has over four decades of experience, emphasizes that climate change affects the most vulnerable communities the hardest. “Our participants know too well the struggles against climate change and are eager to take action,” he explains.
The program isn’t limited to pastors; it attracts community organizers and lay leaders, all motivated to learn about ecological issues and foster a closer connection with nature. As Astudillo puts it, “We believe God cares for all of creation, and we must protect life.”
Participants begin the program by crafting an ecological autobiography, which helps them connect their personal narratives to the greater climate justice movement. This approach makes the issue feel relevant and personal rather than distant and academic. As Astudillo states, “We want people to connect from the heart.”
Following this, the curriculum dives into the historical and structural causes of climate change, exploring themes of exploitation and colonization. Participants also examine scripture from an environmental perspective, fostering a deeper understanding of their faith’s relationship with nature.
Instructors guide discussions through Zoom, allowing participants to share experiences and support each other. Rev. Ángela Trejo Haager, an instructor from Mexico, notes how vital these connections are. “Meeting others with similar goals assures them they are not alone,” she says.
The center collaborates with seminaries across Central and South America to keep the curriculum relevant and grounded in real-world experiences. This partnership enriches the program by sharing effective strategies to combat climate issues.
Despite being online, the program’s practical impact is significant. In the second semester, participants engage with their faith communities through a Sacred Action Project. These projects can range from organizing beach clean-ups to creating eco-friendly murals, all tailored to local needs.
Rev. Matos Hernández focused his project on the San Juan Bay Estuary, initiating a program to raise awareness about water conservation. He engaged his congregation in activities that allowed youth to understand environmental challenges firsthand. He shared, “Water symbolizes life and purity for me. This journey is about caring for creation.”
His efforts, including community meetings and educational sessions, brought neighbors together. In his reflections, Matos Hernández acknowledged the need for collective action over individual efforts. “True progress in climate justice comes from building community,” he emphasized.
Since completing the program in fall 2024, Matos Hernández has continued to advocate for climate justice through pilgrimages and prayer gatherings with fellow activists. He also has taken his message to local government leaders, pointing to Amos 5:24 for inspiration: “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”
This journey shows that, despite challenges, hope persists, driven by community spirit and faith in a better future. Everyone can contribute to climate justice, whether through personal action or collective community efforts.
