The Fellowship of Reconciliation, a Christian Peacemaking Charity, today issued a statement recognising the energy and promise on show when the Global Climate Strike happens today, 20 September 2019. The statement, from Richard Bickle (Chair of Trustees) highlights the power of non-violence to highlight injustice and focus global attention on tackling the violence of climate change.
Richard Bickle, Chair of Trustees, said:
“The Fellowship of Reconciliation supports the energy behind the General Climate Strike called for 20th September 2019. As an organisation with historic links to non-violent movements around the world we are blown-away by the powerful example of young people currently standing up for their future.
It is up to every individual to decide what actions they take in responce to the violent destruction of climate change. The Climate Crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable, helping drive displacement and laying foundations for conflict. We have no choice but to act. Like the most powerful non-violent movements, the school students strike will involve personal sacrifice from some and through this confront us all with an injustice, energising all to respond.
As followers of Christ, we are always reminded that it was the disciples who tried to turn the children away from Jesus, while Jesus himself welcomed them for conversation. On the topic of the climate, we see the power of non-violence in the student lead mass-protests and urge individuals, churches and church institutions to welcome the young people into their conversations about how to protect God’s planet and all God’s people living on it.”
The Fellowship of Reconciliation will be encouraging it’s staff and members to attend rallies, pray for the climate and to make space to listen to the voices of young people and their concerns.
