Christian Climate Action: why getting arrested is important

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article argues that there is a moral and theological imperative to protest against policies and industries which perpetuate the Climate and Ecological Emergency (CEE). First, evidence is gathered that different church and theological voices are aware of the CEE and engaged with it at some level. Pope Francis’ 2023 Laudate Deum and Quaker Faith and Practice are cited in particular. Walter Wink’s non-violent Jesus is offered as a rationale for creative, prophetic enactment and non-violent direct action (NVDA); and lessons are learned from the success of the 1960s American Civil Rights movement. The Christian Climate Action movement is outlined as a place where authentic and effective enactment takes place. Lastly, words from Martin Luther King Jr. serve as an indictment on today’s church where we fail to offer meaningful protest. A post-script considers ‘hypocrisy’ and the carbon footprint versus radical, systemic change.