Do your part in helping climate change crisis

It is time to accept that we are in a crisis around climate change and recognize the need for drastic action. According to Bill McKibben, author of “Fight Global Warming Now,” this is the “most daunting problem human beings have ever faced.” The results of our indifference will be catastrophic.

Fortunately, there are many grass-roots organizations as well as environmental leaders, churches and civic officials who are challenging us in the reduction of carbon emissions.

One action being advocated by the National Council of Churches of Christ is to join people of faith in celebrating Climate Action week, Sept. 20-27.

This is a global campaign to encourage people from around the world to speak out for God's creation.

Specific actions could include:

l Call and write your senators and encourage them to move ahead on climate legislation this fall.

l Encourage President Obama and members of the administration to take part in the Dec. 7 Copenhagen summit where countries will work toward a new climate treaty.

l Read and discuss McKibben's book or another of many books encouraging the adoption of lifestyle decisions that will lessen our carbon footprint.

l Learn more facts on climate change from

scientists who are warning us of the amount of carbon already in the atmosphere and the results of increasing this amount.

Check the Web at 350.org to learn more about events to take place on Oct. 24, a date for another worldwide movement to create awareness about global warming.

Staff

Prairiewoods

Franciscan Spirituality Center

Hiawatha