The Ecumenical pre-COP30 meeting commenced in Brazil, uniting faith leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean. Bishop Marinez Bassotto emphasized hope as a motivator for immediate climate action. Key discussions included the role of Indigenous peoples in the Amazon and the necessity for environmental justice, culminating in a forthcoming ‘Call to Action’ for the COP30 presidency.
The Ecumenical pre-COP30 meeting commenced at the Anglican Cathedral of Brasília, where Bishop Marinez Bassotto advocated for hope to inspire faith communities in addressing the climate crisis. She conveyed that hope should motivate immediate action rather than deferring to the future. This hope fosters awareness of our interconnectedness, urging solidarity and care for all of creation as expressions of our faith.
Attendees comprised diverse faith communities from Latin America and the Caribbean, including representatives from Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and Indigenous organizations. The meeting aimed to foster exchanges about concerns and best practices while developing a “Call to Action” for presentation to the COP30 presidency. The discussions primarily focus on the climate emergency’s impact on Indigenous populations in the Amazon area.
Director Jocabed Solano emphasized the vital role of Indigenous peoples, who have stewarded the Amazon for generations. Their historical stewardship and ecological knowledge are invaluable in combatting climate change. He called for churches to unite in supporting these communities in safeguarding their territories and recognizing their ecological contributions.
Bishop Jerry Ruiz of Honduras discussed the essence of collaborative efforts towards COP30, highlighting that despite diverse beliefs, the same spirit unites participants in addressing the cries of the earth and marginalized communities. His remarks underscored the need for justice and the overcoming of religious differences to achieve common objectives aligned with the Kingdom of God.
This significant event is organized by various councils and organizations, including the World Council of Churches, ACT Alliance, and Christian Aid, among others, to galvanize faith communities towards effective climate action ahead of COP30.
The pre-COP30 meeting in Brazil highlighted the critical role of faith communities in addressing the climate crisis through hope and collaborative action. Faith leaders recognized the contributions and importance of Indigenous peoples in ecological stewardship. The gathering emphasized solidarity across diverse denominations and the urgent need for justice, uniting participants in a shared mission in preparation for the upcoming global climate summit.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
