Eco-Congregation Ireland’s ‘Shine a Light on Climate Justice’ initiative was launched at the National Ecumenical Prayer Service for COP21 in the presence of President Michael D. Higgins in November, 2015. The climate Justice Candle has been journeying around Ireland and Northern Ireland since then.
Climate Justice is a term used for framing global warming as an ethical and political issue, rather than one that is purely environmental or physical in nature.
The Parish Church of the Most Precious Blood, Cabra West, was delighted to host this candle for a long weekend 21st – 24th March, 2019.
It spent its first day in the ‘Prayer Room’ of St. Catherine’s Senior School, Cabra West. In preparation for its visit the children prepared ‘footprints’ where they wrote their promise on how they would reduce their carbon footprint to protect our common home.
The Candle then took more ‘steps’ to the Church for our weekend Masses. Some of the children’s footprints were on display – highlighting the steps they are taking to protect our earth. Special leaflets were prepared for our Liturgies, where we pledged ourselves to live responsibly and use only our fair share of the earth’s resources.
We were encouraged to enjoy Creation – to take time see Heaven in nature and to go on a Carbon Fast for Lent! We used the following Creed:
We believe in God,
creator of Heaven and earth,
Who set the time of the day and night;
and the passing of the seasons,
Who created the diversity of the planet;
and enabled its abundance.
We believe in Jesus Christ
light of the world,
Who taught us the meaning of good news;
and demonstrated it in action,
Who commanded us to share our bread;
and to drink from the same cup.
We believe in the Holy Spirit
giver of life and renewal,
Who opens up the possibility for change;
and assures us of hope for the future,
Who grants us time to amend our lives;
and unites us in our quest for justice,
peace and the integrity of creation.
Here we are saying ‘goodbye’ to this beautiful candle.
Philomena Neary RSC
If you would like to host this candle contact info@ecocongregationireland.com