Climate Justice and Evangelism Sunday 🌍🙏

This past Sunday was truly a remarkable day for countless Presbyterians, each with their own unique reasons to celebrate. For some, it was a Sunday devoted to the pursuit of Evangelism, fueled in part by the tireless efforts of the dedicated individuals behind the ministry of Theology, Formation, and Evangelism within the Presbyterian Mission Agency. A heartfelt round of applause is in order for the incredible contributions to the Evangelism Sunday resources of Miatta Wilson, Nikki Collins, Carlton Johnson, and yours truly. 👏

Meanwhile, for others, it was a Sunday dedicated to expressing their Protestant values as they joined the passionate throngs in the heart of New York City to march and protest for climate justice, with an awe-inspiring 75,000-strong “cloud of witnesses” by their side. 🌆🌱🌎

In a delightful twist of fate, and perhaps by divine intervention, some Presbyterians were privileged to witness Evangelism intertwined with the fervor for climate justice among this united gathering.

One shining example was the Church of the Covenant, a UCC/PCUSA federated congregation in Boston. This “community” transcended the confines of their church walls and took their sanctuary to the very heart of the bustling march and protest. There, they heeded the call of the Holy Spirit, championing justice and compassion for the precious gift of Creation that God has entrusted to us. In that moment, they felt God’s presence as intimately as the wind and flames of the Holy Spirit, just as our Mother Earth grapples with the wildfires and hurricanes of recent times. 🕊️🔥🌪️

Yet, the Church of the Covenant was not alone in their remarkable demonstration of faith. Other churches, too, made the bold decision to forego their traditional sanctuary worship in favor of celebrating in God’s grand sanctuary of the streets. Together, they swelled the ranks of the marchers, bolstering their numbers to an astonishing 75,000 strong. 🙌🏙️

According to Rev. Rob Mark, an “accomplice” of the Church of the Covenant, it was a day brimming with hope and marked by a resounding public proclamation of our Creator God’s love. It was a heartfelt gesture of solidarity with those who, despite being the most cherished inhabitants of our planet, often find themselves the most marginalized when it comes to climate concerns. ❤️🌿

Among the driving forces behind this inspiring movement were groups like People vs. Fossil Fuels, which garnered the trust and admiration of many for their unwavering dedication. It’s worth noting that these efforts were not only commendable but also noteworthy for being entirely BIPOC/frontline community-led. Even though they had initially anticipated a turnout of only 10,000, their achievements on that unforgettable Sunday were nothing short of extraordinary. It was a day that left us all feeling deeply encouraged and filled with desperate hope for a brighter, more sustainable future. 🌟🌏🌞