Planting trees combats deforestation and erosion. Photo: LWF
Becoming a faith-rooted advocate for climate justice
(LWI) - The Center for Climate Justice and Faith at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (USA) - in partnership with the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) - is accepting applications for its Certificate in Climate Justice and Faith program. This joint initiative empowers lay leaders and clergy to become effective advocates for climate justice.
“We especially encourage applicants from the populations that are most affected by climate change,” says Elena Cedillo, LWF’s Program Executive for Climate Justice. “Anyone interested in learning about and acting on faith-based climate justice within their own context – and exploring the spiritual grounding for that work – will benefit from this opportunity.”
A program for global change-makers
Designed for individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions, the program equips participants with the tools to respond to the climate crisis in ways that also confront racial, gender, and economic injustices. Through a combination of theological reflection, practical skill-building, and community engagement, students will:
- Deepen their faith and spiritual grounding
- Develop practical advocacy and leadership skills
- Expand their understanding of climate justice
- Build a global network of like-minded changemakers
A voice from the field
One graduate, Rev. Shede Habila of The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, describes the program as deeply transformative: “Action on climate change is sacred action because God calls us to care for creation,” he says.
Action on climate change is sacred action because God calls us to care for creation.
Rev. Shede Habila, The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria
For his final project, Rev. Habila launched the Climate Action and Mitigation Sustainability Initiative (CAMSI) to raise awareness about deforestation and mobilize his community to plant trees and combat erosion. In his region, where 90% of the population are small-scale farmers, deforestation and climate-induced flooding have severely threatened livelihoods.
Fully online, globally connected
Running from September 2025 to May 2026, the two-semester program takes place online. Students participate in bi-monthly small group meetings on Zoom, fostering meaningful relationships and collaborative learning across borders and cultures.
Since its launch in 2021, the program has welcomed participants from 29 countries across five continents, creating a vibrant, international community committed to justice and sustainability.
Mode of application and cost
The full cost of the program is $600. Scholarships of up to $550 are available if needed. The applications deadline is 15 June 2025,
