Module 2: Religion and Climate Change
The window for action to turn things around and avert the worst of the climate breakdown is rapidly shrinking. Faith communities are a major but neglected source for mobilisation, action, and new imaginings of our relationship with nature. Faith-based organisations own 8% of the habitable land surface, 5% of all commercial forests, 50% of the schools in the world and 10% of world’s total financial institutions. These can all be mobilised in line with the theologies of stewardship and sustainability we find in all the world faiths.
This module will highlight the action of faith leaders and faith-based NGOs, explore religious teaching on themes of climate change through scriptural reasoning, and allow you to think about your modes of influence within the communities you are part of.
By participating in this module, you will:
- Gain knowledge of the diverse ways in which faith communities and organisations can effect meaningful global change
- Gain understanding of the links between theological motivation and localised faith community action
- Engage critically with multiple spiritual perspectives and how this relates to one’s own faith and inter-group engagement
- Learn from and connect with students from different faith and belief backgrounds in an inclusive, non-assessed educational space
The module sessions:
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Session 1: January 27th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Introduction: contextualising faith and climate
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A comprehensive introduction to the programme, its ethos and expectations, the nature of the climate crisis, and critical engagement with multiple perceptions of the crisis.
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Session 2: February 3rd, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Exploring climate theologies
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This session will explore different religious understandings of the relationship between humankind and the natural world and what these narratives have to offer the wider climate justice movement. Delivered through interactive videos, a panel discussion, and scripture-based dialogue activities.
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Session 3: February 10th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Mobilising local faith-based social action
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This session will explore the way faith communities are making impactful policy interventions on the local level while introducing students to ways of getting involved.
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Session 4: February 17th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Religion and international climate policy
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Drawing on the expertise of sector professionals from different faith backgrounds, this session will emphasise the involvement of faith communities in international climate policymaking and how best to engage in these discussions.
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Closing Session: February 22nd, 11:00am to 2:00pm
Workshop: Tools for leadership in crisis
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This half day workshop will explore and practice skills for effective communication in times of climate crisis, disagreement, and apathy.
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The programme is open to all current LSE students, of any faith or belief or none, and both those that have experience of interfaith activities and those that are keen to get more involved.
Applications for 2024-25 are now open! Click here to apply.
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