Christians, Jews, Baha'is, Buddhists, Hare Krishnas and Quakers were among the religious groups represented at multi-faith gathering for climate action in Brisbane on June 27.
Anglican Dean Peter Catt spoke first arguing that Earth is part of God's creation and needs to be protected for its own sake, not simply for utilitarian reasons. This opened up a theme developed by other speakers about religious motivations for taking environmental action.
The event was promoted under the banner of "Energy innovation NOT earth desecration". It was the first Brisbane event by the newly formed Australian Religious Response to Climate Change.
Wendy Flannery representing the Sisters of Mercy pointed out that people living in a rich country like Australia have a special responsibility to look after the planet.
"How can we love our neighbours if they don't have something to live from and to live for?" she said. This applied in particular to ensuring justice for indigenous peoples.
A number of speakers took up the issue of global justice and the oneness of humanity as an element of and motivation for climate action.
A media release about the event pointed out that "QARRCC members are committed to action for climate change. We consider that global warming is not only a scientific, environmental, economic and political issue – it is also a profoundly moral and spiritual one. It is the vulnerable people and species of the world who are most impacted by climate change."
People wanting to find out more about the group can contact them via their Facebook page: https: www.facebook.com/QARRCC/
