Courtney McGrailIt is imperative that steps are taken to “climate-proof” society, Prof. John Sweeney of NUI Maynooth said at a recent inter-church climate justice event held in Letterkenny Regional Cultural Centre, Co. Donegal. The event, which drew a crowd of more than 80 people from different churches, was co-hosted by Eco-Congregation Ireland and Raphoe Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Group.
Prof. Sweeney said that many parts of the developing world were already experiencing climate change and that the people suffering the consequences were those who have least contributed to carbon emissions. He said it was vital that Ireland came to terms with its contribution to carbon emissions, given that we produce more greenhouse gases than the 400 million poorest people on earth.
Following the keynote address, members of two eco-congregations, including the Oblate parishes of Inchicore in Dublin, gave presentations about the kinds of eco initiatives they have undertaken in their localities. The Inchicore parishes talked about how they frequently include natural materials and prayers for the environment in Masses and how they have organised organic gardening courses, nature walks, litter picks and outdoor services as well as supporting Fairtrade and the planting of trees in Indonesia.
To find out more, see www.ecocongregationireland.com