International summer school in Germany offers opportunities for sharing, learning and networking
(LWI) - “We didn’t approach climate justice in theory only,” said Rev. Dr Sung Kim, Lecturer at the Global Education Department at Mission EineWelt, the Center for Partnership, Development and Mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria, Germany. “It was about a communion of 30 people actively engaging with global justice and climate issues. And it worked: The two weeks from July 13 to 28 led to unexpected and impressive results.”
Kim and his team organized the international summer school on the theme’ Climate justice in our churches and schools.’ The school brought together men and women, lay and ordained, from 21 countries and various professions and backgrounds—from students and young professionals to activists and retired persons working as volunteers. “This diversity was our strength,’ said Kim, “as it allowed us to approach the topics from many perspectives.”
Sharing regional perspectives on climate justice
Participants presented case studies from their respective regions, vividly illustrating the unequal distribution of climate impacts, particularly affecting disadvantaged and vulnerable populations. These presentations highlighted the unique realities and challenges people in different regions face. However, they also showcased how churches are actively mitigating climate impacts or adapting to climate change.
In Malaysia, the church addresses climate justice by supporting small farmers to adapt their production methods, committing to environmental work with youth to facilitate access to alternative energy sources, and seeking ways to educate their congregations.
In Tanzania, women work to integrate vulnerable families into urban environments and facilitate access to education for these families.
In Singapore, churches are fighting against rising sea levels alongside various civil society organizations and the government.
In several countries in Latin America, churches support small farmers and promote reforestation and agroecology, while in Germany, they aim to reduce the carbon footprint of their churches and facilities.
Discussions also covered international agreements, the role of the economy and political measures to promote climate justice.
