Faith Leaders Unite to Lobby MPs for Urgent Climate Action: A Call to Protect Our Planet

Faith groups gathered at Parliament Square to lobby for climate action on July 9. They called for solutions that support both people and nature, urging local MPs to take steps against the climate crisis.

Participants wanted the UK government to allocate funds to areas suffering from climate change, both locally and globally. They emphasized the importance of restoring ecosystems and creating green jobs. Many echoed concerns about preparations for the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil this November.

This event was organized by The Climate Coalition, which unites over 120 organizations, including both secular and faith-based groups like CAFOD and Christian Aid. Approximately 5,000 people showed up, and around 500 MPs were approached—about 80% of the total.

Christine Allen, chief executive of CAFOD, highlighted the need for the UK to lead efforts to relieve debt burdens while unlocking funds to combat climate challenges. “This is about justice and urgent action,” she stated.

Supporters wore bright shirts and held signs demanding immediate change. A group called Our Grandchildren’s Climate campaigned for responsible pension investments. Meanwhile, around 50 people participated in a prayer vigil outside Parliament.

Young students from Catholic schools also attended, enjoying the chance to engage with their MPs. James Trewby, who helped coordinate efforts, expressed pride in seeing students embody Catholic Social Teaching while advocating for future generations.

Two students from Cardinal Newman School in Coventry called the experience “exciting.” They also planned to report on this for their school newsletter. Their chaplain, Alfie McMillan, noted that the students spoke confidently about climate issues, thanks to their involvement in eco-groups and activities with CAFOD.

A Mass at Westminster Cathedral later that day, led by Bishop John Arnold, emphasized care for creation. Bishop Arnold reminded attendees of Pope Francis’s call in “Laudato Si” to prioritize environmental stewardship.

Fr. Charles Chilufya, a CAFOD partner from Kenya, shared his advocacy experiences and encouraged attendees to act for justice. He stressed the importance of supporting the vulnerable, a message rooted in the Church’s long history of fighting for fairness and compassion.

Even Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the significance of the discussions happening that day, linking them to his commitment to tackle climate change both in the UK and globally.

On the same day, Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass for the Care of Creation, urging everyone to recognize the urgency of caring for our planet.

The combined efforts of faith groups, students, and political leaders shown at this lobby reinforce a collective call for transformative action on climate issues, illustrating the intertwining of moral responsibility with environmental stewardship.

For more information, visit The Climate Coalition, CAFOD, or the Columban Missionaries.



Source link