Video feature
Below, they reflect on what inspired them to create the video, the needs they see on the ground, and what we can pray with them.
Do you believe the young people in the PCTT can lead the way toward climate justice?
Intern ministers: Definitely! For a long time, we've been saying that our youth and our children are the "future" of the world. The PCTT believes that our youth are leaders of today, because they are part of the world today...their voices and ideas matter today.
The impact of climate change has intensified over time and our youth of today are the ones who will face the worst effects. Our youth far and wide are tapping into their skills to speak up for climate justice because they have the right to participate in the decision-making processes that impact them.
Our youth remind the church to think outside the norms and discover ways to live in a loving relationship with God and all of creation. In fact, the Board of Youth Affairs and the PCTT's Youth Mission Arm, “The Souled Out Servants,” have been doing just that through their multifaceted programs.
How do you go about educating churches on these best environmental practices?
Intern ministers: There is a need for effective education in our churches on why ecological spirituality is important and how to go about facilitating it. The teaching of it begins in our Sunday Schools and youth groups in the form of the stewardship of creation. Because stewardship embodies responsibility and care, this means that they are learnt traits that can be engrained in the next generation. Instead of just activists, we create strategists.
Therefore, love and respect for God's creation becomes a part of our character as a church because of a fostered culture that was created. Paperless meetings, beach cleanups, recycling, tree planting and trying to reduce our carbon footprint then become just the minimum of what we naturally do. As a result, we go beyond just a call for action on our social media pages, pews and pulpits. We enter into a sphere of action and duty toward the upkeep, care and integrity of God's creation through the support and education of our youth.
Finally, as your church’s voice is so important in this time of COP26, what can your ecumenical family pray for you?
Intern ministers:
We would like to center prayers around a Bible verse from Isaiah 24:4-5.
The earth dries up and withers, the world languishes and withers; the heavens languish together with the earth. The earth lies polluted under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant.
Please pray for those who lost income to gain suitable employment. Pray for more effective and efficient health care for COVID-19 patients. Pray for justice for those who are affected by gender-based violence, especially abused women and children.
Please join us in praying for the rekindling of the faith of members who have difficulties with their faith journey in these turbulent and unique times. Join us in praying for strength and courage for our church leaders to carry out their duties during this new normal and beyond.
Pray for good governance and equality within our nation, and for justice and integrity for the eco-system.
