The climate crisis is one of the greatest injustices of our time—impacting most severely those who have contributed the least to it. Coming from the Global South, I have witnessed firsthand how climate injustice continues to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. For me, climate justice is not merely an environmental concern; it is a matter of intergenerational equity and human dignity. It is a sacred responsibility—one we are called to uphold through theological conviction, spiritual accountability, and moral courage.
Attending the Act Now, Change Forever mass lobbying exercise at Parliament Square (9 July 2025), reminded me of the urgency of a discipleship of care in a context of climate emergency. It also lifted up the inevitable inter-religious dimension of care for creation, because the climate crisis needs the wisdom and spiritual resources of people of different faiths and persuasions. Lobbying alongside diverse faith leaders was a deeply moving and empowering experience. Being surrounded by passionate individuals—church leaders, members of diverse faith communities, young people, humanitarian organisations, and climate activists—reiterated a profound sense of shared purpose and urgency. We stood together, driven by the conviction that climate justice cannot wait and that if we are not part of the solution now, we will remain part of the problem.
As an ordained pastor in the Lutheran Church in Great Britain (LCiGB) and in my current role as Head of Chaplaincy and Development at the Council of Lutheran Churches (CLC), I view my work through the lens of pastoral care and prophetic advocacy. I also serve as a student chaplain, where I accompany international students and young professionals, encouraging them to become advocates for climate justice in their own contexts.
This event vividly brought my personal and professional commitments to life. It was especially powerful to witness communities actively engaging with their elected representatives—requesting meetings with their MPs and raising critical questions about climate policies, environmental protections, and the UK’s role in global climate finance. I have received a positive reply from my MP from South Croydon. This act of public witness demonstrated the strength of faith-based advocacy and the accountability we expect from those in power.
My involvement in the interfaith Faith for the Climate network has further shaped my perspective. Over the past two years the CLC has been holding a vigil for Creation in the month of September to participate in the Season of Creation celebration. This year, the South Bank churches will come together on 15 September to Pray for Peace with Creation. Events like this reinforce how collaborative and cross-religious, and inter-denominational efforts are essential in building a just and sustainable future. Faith communities bring not only moral clarity but also deep-rooted hope in the face of ecological despair.
The presence and leadership of church leaders at Parliament Square underscored the vital role of faith in public life. Our call is clear: to stand with and for those most affected by the climate crisis, to protect God’s creation, and to hold systems of power and people in power and in decision-making accountable. Climate justice, after all, is inseparable from human dignity and the commandment to love our neighbours—especially the most vulnerable.
Personally, this experience reaffirmed my conviction and strengthened my resolve to continue this work—amplifying the voices that are too often silenced and walking alongside those who are most impacted. The journey toward climate justice is long and complex, but moments like these are signs of hope. They remind us that change is possible—when we act collectively, prophetically, and with compassion.
Rev Rebecca Daniel is the Head of Chaplaincy and Development for the Council of Lutheran Churches in Great Britain and an ordained pastor with the Lutheran Church in Great Britain. She also serves as a visiting chaplain at SOAS University. Originally from South India, Rebecca has worked with the Lutheran World Federation in Geneva and is passionate about mentoring young people in transformative leadership. A strong advocate for gender and climate justice, she integrates these causes into her ministry and outreach efforts.
Main photo: Rev Rebecca is second from the right. Credit Faith for the Climate.
South Bank Churches (London) and the Council of Lutheran Churches invite us to pray with them on 15 September as part of the Season of Creation. Join in person or online at 8.30am and 6pm. Download a flyer with all the details.