Scottish churches say time for change on global warming

Scottish eco-congregations will gather in Stirling on Saturday with the hope of progressing religious engagement on climate change.

The all day ecumenical event at Stirling Baptist Church will celebrate the success of eco-congregations from churches across Scotland, and look at the challenges ahead in raising climate change awareness within local parishes.

The Church of Scotland strongly supports eco-congregations and is urging them to take action against global warming.

Eco-congregations have rapidly emerged over the last five years - in Scotland there are currently 172, whilst in England the figure is over 270.

The term 'eco-congregation' is awarded to churches that have made a commitment to address environmental issues in worship, in the management of church property and through community action.

Speakers at the event include the Scottish Environment Protection Agency's John Ferguson and Fred Edwards from Scottish Environment Link.

Adrian Shaw, climate change project officer for the Church of Scotland, will deliver the keynote speech in the afternoon session.

He said: "The Kirk is concerned about the implications of climate change not just in Scotland but across the world particularly because of the threat it poses to the poor.

"Eco-congregations have a vital role to play in addressing this challenge."

The event is being sponsored by the Church of Scotland and Keep Scotland Beautiful.