Iowa Interfaith Power & Light released “A Statement by Religious Leaders in Iowa on Global Climate Change,” on Earth Day which was signed by 92 clergy and other faith leaders representing 16 different religious traditions and 77 congregations or organizations in Iowa from 31 cities around the state.
The statement reads, in part, “As people of faith, we are called to love our neighbors who are near and far in place and time, to seek justice for all who are imperiled by climate change, and to act with wisdom on the basis of the knowledge we possess.”
Rev. Susan Guy, Executive Director of Iowa Interfaith Power & Light said that the goal for releasing this statement on Earth Day is to draw attention to the fact that care for Earth is something held in common by diverse faith traditions. “Through all of our differences, one thing that we share together is a call to love and care for our neighbors. Climate change is a threat multiplier, exacerbating issues that people of faith are working on such as hunger, disaster relief, and conflict resolution.”
The statement calls for a reduction in carbon pollution and support for clean energy technologies, along with a fast for climate justice.
The full statement and signatories can be found below.Religious Leaders Statement 2015 Final