These workshops took place at ‘Renewal and Rebellion: Faith, Economy and Climate‘ on 7 March 2020 at the Riverside Centre in Derby.
We’ll add other resources as these are made available.
Thank you to our workshop facilitators for delivering such thought-provoking and inspiring sessions.
Workshop 1: Shaping a distinctly Christian voice in climate action – with Christian Aid
God’s promise to creation throughout the Biblical story is one of renewal. Multiple times, God offers the hope of new life to creation. In the light of the climate crisis, it can be difficult to maintain this voice of hope, particularly when confronted with the grief of global disasters. What is the distinctive voice of the Christian faith in responding to the climate crisis? How might we be able to speak a prophetic voice of hope into difficult times?
Workshop 2: Living in a Poverty Free Economy – with Paul Morrison
Our current economy has delivered both environmental destruction and human poverty. But could a better-designed economy simultaneously benefit the environment and lift families out of poverty? Explore with us what changes we can make in the UK today to policies such as Universal Credit, employment and housing to begin the change to a sustainable, poverty-free economy that won’t cost the Earth.
Workshop 3: Christian Rebellion for the Climate? – with Christian Climate Action
Non Violent Direct Action (NVDA) has played a crucial role in promoting the agenda of environmental action globally. Activists who are taking part, including many people of faith, say that they have exhausted all other options when it comes to calling for action for the environment, and that taking direct action is the final step. What role does faith have to play in choosing whether direct action is the right response to the environmental crisis?
Workshop 4: Preaching and praying on climate justice – with Sally Foster-Fulton
How can service leaders and ministers help their congregations to engage with climate justice issues in a way that is meaningful and Biblical? How can you avoid the criticism of ‘politicising the pulpit’ yet remain faithful to God’s values? Find out creative ways to preach and pray designed to inspire and empower church members to take seriously their role in caring for creation.
Workshop 5: Reshaping the economy at a local level – with WEvolution
How can a local community make a positive difference on our economic systems? Isn’t that the job of the banks and the stock exchange traders? Explore the dynamics of microfinance and community-based schemes designed to upset the status quo and introduce a more just way of doing business.
Workshop 6: The role of business in responding to climate change – with On Purpose
Innovation in industry has great potential to mitigate the environmental degradation evident in our world and bring transformation for the good of the planet. If our journey to ‘net-zero’ will not allow ‘business as usual’ to continue, what alternatives do we have and how can Christians be involved in encouraging newer technologies that will bring renewal and enable all life to flourish?