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Lent 2010
This Lent season, we
are encouraging you to prayerfully consider letting go of something that
will have a positive impact on the environment in pursuit of a life
that better reflects God's character and love. Perhaps you choose to
take action, or perhaps you focus your prayers on environmental issues.
Whatever you do, take a risk and see how God provides for you, changes
you, and brings you closer to Him.
We will be posting daily suggestions for actions and prayers, following along with the Tearfund's Carbon Fast. Even if you have never observed Lent or are starting late, don't hesitate to join us!
March 28th: Renewal
Action: Thank God that one day the earth will be renewed to reflect his glory completely. Pray that the church will awaken globally to its responsibility to fight injustice and care for and renew the earth because it is God's creation, and in order to protect poor people.
Prayer: Choose one country to pray for today. Pray that it may respond effectively to climate change, whether it is responding now to the devastating impacts or working out how it can help others respond.
March 27th: Spring clean
Action:Have a clear-out of things you really don't need and take them to a charity shop today. Rediscover what you do have, to help you avoid buying things you don't need.
Prayer: God, as you work to transform us, please root out my greed and any pleasure-seeking activities I pursue at the expense of others. Amen.
March 26th: Avoid short car journeys
Action: A cold engine uses twice as much fuel, so walk, bike, or get the bus instead of using unnecessary fuel.
Prayer: Pray for rich countries to increase climate finance commitments and for this money to be supplied to the poorest people, who need it most. Pray for innovative ideas for how to provide this, in the light of a global recession, so that funding can be provided quickly.
March 25th: Radical recycling
Action: Make a renewed commitment to recycle, even things that the city doesn't take from your door, such as appliances and furniture. Consider purchasing items with minimal or no packaging and items made of recycled and recyclable material.
Prayer: Father, please help me to do what you give me to do with a cheerful heart and a sense of proportion. Help my recycling and everything I do to reduce my carbon emissions and to be an act of worship, not a chore or a status symbol. Whenever I'm tempted to get legalistic about it, please give me your spirit of generosity instead.
March 24th: Put a plug in it
Action: When you wash up, do dishes, get a drink, or brush your teeth, don't leave the water running longer than you need to. Change your water-wasting habits to conserve water and energy.
Prayer: "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10. Thank God for his timing. Pray for patience and time to be still and quiet, listening for God's voice. Pray for all those who don't feel that they can stop. Ask God that they may be granted rest.
March 23rd: Love your neighbors
Action: What's your local community doing to tackle climate change? Could you encourage local businesses or shops to switch off lights each evening, support greener travel to work, insulate their buildings, or switch to renewable energy? Who is your neighbor? It's strange that many of us don't know our neighbors next door, let alone those across the world. Climate change can mean our global neighbors go hungry because of drought, or lose their homes because of floods.
Prayer: Pray for neighbors around the world who are impacted by climate change, thanking God for his love that leads us to love our neighbors. Pray that we may put love into action (1 John 3:18).
March 22nd: Lower-energy cooking
Action: Use a microwave or slow cooker to cook your meal today - they're much more energy-efficient than conventional ovens.
Prayer: "The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them." Isaiah 41:17. Lord God, we pray for people whose lives are being destroyed by climate change - more floods, more hurricanes, more droughts, or simply land that isn't there anymore to farm. Help them to adapt to these changes and find ways to survive and flourish. We pray that governments of countries that have done the most to cause climate change will help those who are suffering most from its effects. Help us, as part of your global church, to play our own part by changing our lifestyles - by living more simply, so that others may simply live. Amen.
March 21st: Focus on the world
Action: Check the news headlines and pray for the people behind one news story that impacts the environment or a developing country. Why not try to do this more often, committing to issues and situations to God as soon as you read them?
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you are the hope of the nations. Please bring peace where there is conflict, joy where there is despair, justice where there are wrongs, and truth where there is dishonesty. Amen.
March 20th: Green fingers
Action: Growing your own food reduces energy use. Plant some vegetables or herbs today. If you don't have a garden, you could herbs in pots on the windowsill or share land with others.
Prayer: "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." Genesis 1:31. Give thanks for creations, specifically naming good things that God has created.
March 19th: Resist BOGOF
Action: Too often, "buy one get one free" offers tempt us to purchase things we don't use. 40% of the food we throw away is fruits and vegetables. You could try shopping online to prevent those impulse purchases.
Prayer: God, thank you for your gracious provision. Please help me to be content and generous with what you've given me. I pray that you will help me to resist temptation and rest instead in your provision. Amen.
March 18th: Get composting
Action: Food waste sent to landfill sites emits methane, whereas home composting is methane-free because air is involved. Check out www.recyclenow.com/home_composting for advice on composting. Compost is rich and fertile and helps plants to grow, flower and bear fruit. Yet it used to be garbage. It's a reminder of our own transformation as God has made us new creations.
Prayer: God, thank you that you haven't given up on me, but have transformed me into a new creation through Jesus. Show me how I can help restore the earth as we wait for the full restoration of everything when Jesus returns.
March 17th: Take action
Action: As world leaders continue to work out the details of how they'll tackle climate change globally, write to your Senators to urge them to ensure that the United States plays its part.
Prayer: Pray for world leaders to act with integrity and not to be fearful of losing votes but to do what's right remembering those already suffering from the changing climate. Pray that we may act with love, bringing the needs of vulnerable communities to the attention of rich developed countries. "Perfect love drives out fear." 1 John 4:18
March 16th: Reuse and recycle cell phones
Action: Snub your next cell phone upgrade and keep your current one. Recycle any unused phones.
Prayer: Give thanks for the opportunities you've had to reduce your emissions and act on climate change. Ask God for more opportunities to take action and to encourage other to join in too.
March 15th: Try skinny food
Action: But we don't mean calories! Choosing thin pasta and cutting meat and vegetables smaller will mean they'll cook faster and use less energy.
Prayer: Thank God for ruling with justice and wisdom. Please pray for leaders to act more justly by raising their ambitions and reaching agreement soon on better emissions targets.
March 14th: John 10:10
Action: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." What does life to the full mean for you? Reflect and pray through this today.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for church-based partners who are working in many countries to help communities adapt to the effects of climate change. I pray for developed countries to provide more finance for this work and for good communications to exchange ideas and technology to help respond to droughts, floods, and sea-level rise.
March 13th: Efficient home
Action: Save energy and money by choosing energy-efficient home improvements and appliances when you need them.
Prayer: Pray for new homes to be built with climate change and environmental sustainability in mind. Thank God for builders, engineers and all those who are developing technology to reduce emissions and raise energy efficiency. Pray that they may be blessed with wisdom and creative ideas.
March 12th: Travel light and aerodynamic
Action: Remove roof racks and unnecessary weight from your car.
Prayer: God, show me where I need to change, where my life is burdening others and hurting you. Release me to love you more fully and help me to strive for justice for the oppressed and marginalized.
March 11th: Block unused fireplaces
Action: Stuff scrunched up newspaper up unused fireplaces to stop heat escaping through the chimney - a good method as it still allows a little air to circulate. We're half way through the Carbon Fast! How is it going? Spend some time reflecting today on what you've done so far. What's been easy and what's been more challenging? What have you learned?
Prayer: Give thanks for what you've achieved so far and how this has contributed towards reducing carbon use. Pray for inspiration and motivation for the rest of the Carbon Fast.
March 10th: Recycle!
Action: Super recycler at home? How is your office, school, or church? Make a commitment to set up better recycling schemes today and petition your local council for more recycling facilities.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that I won't be satisfied with changes I make in my life, but that I will take them out into my community. Please give me a voice to speak up about the injustice of climate change.
March 9th: Swap shop
Action: Arrange a swapping party with friends. Exchange clothes, DVDs, CDs, jewelery, and bags so everyone gets something new without a trip to the shops.
Prayer: God, thank you for farmers who work hard to provide food and income for their families. Please provide seeds, water, good soil, and the right seasons so that farmers can have adequate food and money to survive. Please help us to live sustainably to protect the land and the supply of water to grow crops.
March 8th: Have a technology fast
Action: Try a day with no TV, no iPod, no computer, and even no cell phone. Why not set aside a technology fast day each month? If you need to use a computer or phone for work, think of something you could do without today. Spend time reflecting on your use of technology - how does it impact your life and the lives of those around you? How could you use it more productively?
Prayer: Pray for governments, businesses, civil society, and the church to champion clean and sustainable development. Ask God to provide developing countries with resources to develop sustainably, and pray that rich countries will support this with technology and finance.
March 7th: Wrapping up Global Poverty Prayer Week
Action & Prayer: As One Voice, the Global Poverty Prayer Week, draws to a close, give thanks to God for his grace and promise in bringing justice to a changing climate. Pray for millions of people be released from poverty and for Christians to increase their awareness of global justice issues.
March 6th: Make do and mend
Action: Do you have clothes you could wear for longer if you gave them a little TLC? Spend some time doing old-fashioned mending, or ask a friend for help.
Prayer: Father God, please calm the unsustainable rate of consumption and transform us into people who are content with what we have rather than striving to own more and more.
March 5th: Ask the climate question
Action: What is your Senator or Congressperson doing to tackle climate change? Write to them or arrange a meeting today.
Prayer: God, thank you for leaders who want to govern this country. Please help them to act justly, live with integrity and make wise decisions that protect people and the planet.
March 4th: Less is more
Action: Try to buy food with the least, or most recyclable, packaging, and avoid plastic bags.
Prayer: Ask God for wisdom for all those seeking to reduce impacts of disasters by preparedness, technology, and education. Thank God for countries who are seeking to build links between climate change adaptation and disaster work, and to continue to bless this work to protect more people from disasters.
March 3rd: Limescale reduces efficiency
Action: Fill your tea kettle with one-third vinegar and two-thirds water and soak overnight. Rinse, then boil the kettle, and discard the water. Then enjoy some tea with a friend!
Prayer: Ask God for clear, truthful, and authentic communication on climate change issues from churches, scientists, government, and the media, and for God's will to be done.
March 2nd: One Voice
Action: One voice. One people. One prayer. This week is Global Poverty Prayer Week. Join in to pray about injustice, pleading for people who are hungry and downtrodden, especially those suffering from the impacts of climate change. When we get quiet and listen to the whispers of God, we find ourselves tuning in to the voices of people in poverty. Drowned out by the noise of a world which beats to the rhythms of wealth and power, they call, unheard, for justice. As we pray, we join their calls and together turn up the volume on their voices.
Prayer: God, unite us in love with our global sisters and brothers. Open our eyes to your transformational vision for our world, in which poverty, oppression, and injustice have no place.
March 1st: Reduce food miles
Action: Buy seasonal and local fruit and vegetables. To find out what's in season, click here. If you are buying goods from overseas, buy Fairtrade whenever possible.
Prayer: Pray for communities that are being overharvested for their goods.
February 28th: Prayer matters
Action and prayer: Pray for poor people affected by the changing climate and for local churches who are helping communities adapt.
February 27th: Sustainable furnishings
Action: When you need to buy furniture next, choose recycled, second-hand or sustainable furniture items to reduce the energy used when products are manufactured and transported. It is estimated that deforestation currently contributes around 18% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions.
Prayer: Thank God for forests, plants, and animals that show the wonderful beauty and diversity of creation. For help to appreciate creation and the resources we have. For a culture that treasures resources rather than plundering them.
February 26th: Easy on the gas!
Action: Avoid excess idling and hard acceleration - the more revs you use, the more fuel you're burning, so ease up!
Prayer: Thank God for global transportation that connects us to the world. Ask God to help governments and businesses agree to policies to reduce emissions from travel and to develop technology to improve fuel efficiency.
February 25th: Cook for free
Action: Stove tops and ovens take a while to cool, so turn them off earlier so your food finishes cooking without using extra energy.
Prayer: Thank God that people around the world are asking for climate justice and that the global church has begun to respond to climate change. Pray for energy and motivation to sustain each person as they continue to seek urgent action to tackle climate change.
February 24th: Eat by candlelight
Action: How many rooms do you light in the evenings? Turn out the lights and enjoy the ambiance of a candlelit dinner!
Prayer: Thank God for bringing light into darkness and pray that he will bring light, peace, and safety to those who are fearful and suffering from the impact of climate change.
February 23rd: Speak up for climate justice
Action: Join the movement to create a new energy system, guided by our love for God and all of His creation. Developed nations emit the highest per capita carbon footprint, but it is the poor in developing countries who are hit hardest by the effects of climate change. Sign our petition here.
Prayer: That God will bring climate justice across the world. That we will be people who bring heaven to earth by the way we live and the choices that we make.
February 22nd: Turn it down
Action: If your water is too hot to handle when you fill the sink or run a bath, your hot water thermostat is probably too high. Try setting it at 140 F (60 C).
Prayer: For developed countries to show more ambition by committing to higher emissions reduction targets and to providing the finances needed to enable clean development and reduced emissions in the developing world.
February 21st: Reflect on your lifestyle
Action: Set aside some time to reflect on how your lifestyle impacts the planet, asking God what you can do to restore your relationship with the world and with your neighbors (local or global).
Prayer: Confess times you have taken the easy route, even when you know it's not where God wants you to go. Ask for help to follow God, trusting that He knows you and has the best for you.
February 20th: Hop a train
Action: If there is a trip you're taking in the next couple of months, look into the option of taking a train rather than driving or flying.
Prayer: For those who are not connected to a form of community. For God to break down barriers that cause loneliness and for love to unite.
February 19th: Switch to green energy
Action: Ask your energy supplier about their renewable energy options. If they don't have any, consider switching to a supplier who does.
Prayer: That God will be our supply of energy and motivation and that He will teach us to worship with our whole lives.
February 18th: Go vegetarian...part-time!
Action: Plan to eat at least two vegetarian meals this week. Carbon emissions from the livestock industry contribute about 18% of total global emissions.
Prayer: That the awareness of the meat industry's contribution to climate change would be increased, and that God would give wisdom and guidance to our world leaders as they respond to environmental issues and the impacts they have.
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This Lent season, we
are encouraging you to prayerfully consider letting go of something that
will have a positive impact on the environment in pursuit of a life
that better reflects God's character and love. Perhaps you choose to
take action, or perhaps you focus your prayers on environmental issues.
Whatever you do, take a risk and see how God provides for you, changes
you, and brings you closer to Him.We will be posting daily suggestions for actions and prayers, following along with the Tearfund's Carbon Fast. Even if you have never observed Lent or are starting late, don't hesitate to join us!
April 3rd: Review the actions you've taken during Lent
Action:Make a list of three or four that you want to keep doing this month. Repeat each month, or when you can, to get into carbon-saving habits. Give thanks to God for your Carbon Fasting experience and pray that he will help you sustain what you have done during Lent .
Prayer: A prayer of commitment to continue living in step with God and creation:
Lord God, thank you for your wonderful creation. I'm sorry for the part I've played in spoiling it. Please help me to continue taking positive steps to reduce my impact on people and planet by caring for creation, loving my neighbors, and acting justly. Please motivate and sustain me to take action and show me areas of my life where I need to change. Amen.
April 2nd: Have a dairy-free day
Action: The global livestock sector generates more carbon than all forms of transport, so cutting down on dairy will slash your carbon footprint. Climate change impacts agriculture - affecting soil, water provision, temperatures and harvest patterns, and causing food and income insecurity across the world. This situation is likely to get worse as demand for food rises and production yields and quality decrease.
Prayer: Pray for issues of agriculture and food security to stay high on the agenda during global climate negotiations this year. Pray that negotiators from developed countries will recognize the plight faced by millions with difficult agricultural conditions and provide the necessary resources to fight the problem.
April 1st: Walk it
Action: If you're planning a sightseeing trip, walking around will save carbon and enable you to see more.
Prayer: Walk it today: stroll around your local area, spending time appreciating and praying for the parts you like and any places you find challenging. Why not arrange to do this with friends from time to time to commit your community to prayer?
Some ideas for prayer:
*Pray for parks and other green spaces to be enjoyed and preserved.
*Give thanks for places where creation is valued and protected.
*Pray for your local government to govern wisely, using resources sustainably and caring for creation.
March 31st: Check your flush
Action: Do you always need to flush the toilet? Or perhaps get a water-saving device for your toilet tank. For other water-saving tips, check out this website.
Prayer: Every day 5000 children under five die needlessly from diarrhoeal diseases caused by dirty water. Pray for the global church to be moved to action, as people stop to think how something as basic as water is robbing so many millions of dignity and potential. Pray that thousands of churches around the world will raise their voice to educate governments, and ensure that "justice rolls on like a river" (Amos 5:24).
March 30th: Turn your boss, pastor, or school green
Action: If you think they're going to be hard to persuade, emphasize the money they'll save by reducing energy use!
Prayer: Across the world the global church is taking action to tackle climate change. Spend time praying for these initiatives and the church as it seeks to respond to the issue. Pray for boldness in speaking for truth and justice and for governments and businesses to listen.
March 29th: Bulk cook
Action: Cook double portions. Bulk cook and freeze extra portions to reheat when you need them.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the variety of food across the world. Thank you for our access to relatively inexpensive food in the US. Please help us to value this provision. Please provide food for people who go hungry because of failed harvests and steep food prices, and help us as we work to stop the problems from getting worse.
Action:Make a list of three or four that you want to keep doing this month. Repeat each month, or when you can, to get into carbon-saving habits. Give thanks to God for your Carbon Fasting experience and pray that he will help you sustain what you have done during Lent .
Prayer: A prayer of commitment to continue living in step with God and creation:
Lord God, thank you for your wonderful creation. I'm sorry for the part I've played in spoiling it. Please help me to continue taking positive steps to reduce my impact on people and planet by caring for creation, loving my neighbors, and acting justly. Please motivate and sustain me to take action and show me areas of my life where I need to change. Amen.
April 2nd: Have a dairy-free day
Action: The global livestock sector generates more carbon than all forms of transport, so cutting down on dairy will slash your carbon footprint. Climate change impacts agriculture - affecting soil, water provision, temperatures and harvest patterns, and causing food and income insecurity across the world. This situation is likely to get worse as demand for food rises and production yields and quality decrease.
Prayer: Pray for issues of agriculture and food security to stay high on the agenda during global climate negotiations this year. Pray that negotiators from developed countries will recognize the plight faced by millions with difficult agricultural conditions and provide the necessary resources to fight the problem.
April 1st: Walk it
Action: If you're planning a sightseeing trip, walking around will save carbon and enable you to see more.
Prayer: Walk it today: stroll around your local area, spending time appreciating and praying for the parts you like and any places you find challenging. Why not arrange to do this with friends from time to time to commit your community to prayer?
Some ideas for prayer:
*Pray for parks and other green spaces to be enjoyed and preserved.
*Give thanks for places where creation is valued and protected.
*Pray for your local government to govern wisely, using resources sustainably and caring for creation.
March 31st: Check your flush
Action: Do you always need to flush the toilet? Or perhaps get a water-saving device for your toilet tank. For other water-saving tips, check out this website.
Prayer: Every day 5000 children under five die needlessly from diarrhoeal diseases caused by dirty water. Pray for the global church to be moved to action, as people stop to think how something as basic as water is robbing so many millions of dignity and potential. Pray that thousands of churches around the world will raise their voice to educate governments, and ensure that "justice rolls on like a river" (Amos 5:24).
March 30th: Turn your boss, pastor, or school green
Action: If you think they're going to be hard to persuade, emphasize the money they'll save by reducing energy use!
Prayer: Across the world the global church is taking action to tackle climate change. Spend time praying for these initiatives and the church as it seeks to respond to the issue. Pray for boldness in speaking for truth and justice and for governments and businesses to listen.
March 29th: Bulk cook
Action: Cook double portions. Bulk cook and freeze extra portions to reheat when you need them.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the variety of food across the world. Thank you for our access to relatively inexpensive food in the US. Please help us to value this provision. Please provide food for people who go hungry because of failed harvests and steep food prices, and help us as we work to stop the problems from getting worse.
March 28th: Renewal
Action: Thank God that one day the earth will be renewed to reflect his glory completely. Pray that the church will awaken globally to its responsibility to fight injustice and care for and renew the earth because it is God's creation, and in order to protect poor people.
Prayer: Choose one country to pray for today. Pray that it may respond effectively to climate change, whether it is responding now to the devastating impacts or working out how it can help others respond.
March 27th: Spring clean
Action:Have a clear-out of things you really don't need and take them to a charity shop today. Rediscover what you do have, to help you avoid buying things you don't need.
Prayer: God, as you work to transform us, please root out my greed and any pleasure-seeking activities I pursue at the expense of others. Amen.
March 26th: Avoid short car journeys
Action: A cold engine uses twice as much fuel, so walk, bike, or get the bus instead of using unnecessary fuel.
Prayer: Pray for rich countries to increase climate finance commitments and for this money to be supplied to the poorest people, who need it most. Pray for innovative ideas for how to provide this, in the light of a global recession, so that funding can be provided quickly.
March 25th: Radical recycling
Action: Make a renewed commitment to recycle, even things that the city doesn't take from your door, such as appliances and furniture. Consider purchasing items with minimal or no packaging and items made of recycled and recyclable material.
Prayer: Father, please help me to do what you give me to do with a cheerful heart and a sense of proportion. Help my recycling and everything I do to reduce my carbon emissions and to be an act of worship, not a chore or a status symbol. Whenever I'm tempted to get legalistic about it, please give me your spirit of generosity instead.
March 24th: Put a plug in it
Action: When you wash up, do dishes, get a drink, or brush your teeth, don't leave the water running longer than you need to. Change your water-wasting habits to conserve water and energy.
Prayer: "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10. Thank God for his timing. Pray for patience and time to be still and quiet, listening for God's voice. Pray for all those who don't feel that they can stop. Ask God that they may be granted rest.
March 23rd: Love your neighbors
Action: What's your local community doing to tackle climate change? Could you encourage local businesses or shops to switch off lights each evening, support greener travel to work, insulate their buildings, or switch to renewable energy? Who is your neighbor? It's strange that many of us don't know our neighbors next door, let alone those across the world. Climate change can mean our global neighbors go hungry because of drought, or lose their homes because of floods.
Prayer: Pray for neighbors around the world who are impacted by climate change, thanking God for his love that leads us to love our neighbors. Pray that we may put love into action (1 John 3:18).
March 22nd: Lower-energy cooking
Action: Use a microwave or slow cooker to cook your meal today - they're much more energy-efficient than conventional ovens.
Prayer: "The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them." Isaiah 41:17. Lord God, we pray for people whose lives are being destroyed by climate change - more floods, more hurricanes, more droughts, or simply land that isn't there anymore to farm. Help them to adapt to these changes and find ways to survive and flourish. We pray that governments of countries that have done the most to cause climate change will help those who are suffering most from its effects. Help us, as part of your global church, to play our own part by changing our lifestyles - by living more simply, so that others may simply live. Amen.
March 21st: Focus on the world
Action: Check the news headlines and pray for the people behind one news story that impacts the environment or a developing country. Why not try to do this more often, committing to issues and situations to God as soon as you read them?
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you are the hope of the nations. Please bring peace where there is conflict, joy where there is despair, justice where there are wrongs, and truth where there is dishonesty. Amen.
March 20th: Green fingers
Action: Growing your own food reduces energy use. Plant some vegetables or herbs today. If you don't have a garden, you could herbs in pots on the windowsill or share land with others.
Prayer: "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." Genesis 1:31. Give thanks for creations, specifically naming good things that God has created.
March 19th: Resist BOGOF
Action: Too often, "buy one get one free" offers tempt us to purchase things we don't use. 40% of the food we throw away is fruits and vegetables. You could try shopping online to prevent those impulse purchases.
Prayer: God, thank you for your gracious provision. Please help me to be content and generous with what you've given me. I pray that you will help me to resist temptation and rest instead in your provision. Amen.
March 18th: Get composting
Action: Food waste sent to landfill sites emits methane, whereas home composting is methane-free because air is involved. Check out www.recyclenow.com/home_composting for advice on composting. Compost is rich and fertile and helps plants to grow, flower and bear fruit. Yet it used to be garbage. It's a reminder of our own transformation as God has made us new creations.
Prayer: God, thank you that you haven't given up on me, but have transformed me into a new creation through Jesus. Show me how I can help restore the earth as we wait for the full restoration of everything when Jesus returns.
March 17th: Take action
Action: As world leaders continue to work out the details of how they'll tackle climate change globally, write to your Senators to urge them to ensure that the United States plays its part.
Prayer: Pray for world leaders to act with integrity and not to be fearful of losing votes but to do what's right remembering those already suffering from the changing climate. Pray that we may act with love, bringing the needs of vulnerable communities to the attention of rich developed countries. "Perfect love drives out fear." 1 John 4:18
March 16th: Reuse and recycle cell phones
Action: Snub your next cell phone upgrade and keep your current one. Recycle any unused phones.
Prayer: Give thanks for the opportunities you've had to reduce your emissions and act on climate change. Ask God for more opportunities to take action and to encourage other to join in too.
March 15th: Try skinny food
Action: But we don't mean calories! Choosing thin pasta and cutting meat and vegetables smaller will mean they'll cook faster and use less energy.
Prayer: Thank God for ruling with justice and wisdom. Please pray for leaders to act more justly by raising their ambitions and reaching agreement soon on better emissions targets.
March 14th: John 10:10
Action: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." What does life to the full mean for you? Reflect and pray through this today.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for church-based partners who are working in many countries to help communities adapt to the effects of climate change. I pray for developed countries to provide more finance for this work and for good communications to exchange ideas and technology to help respond to droughts, floods, and sea-level rise.
March 13th: Efficient home
Action: Save energy and money by choosing energy-efficient home improvements and appliances when you need them.
Prayer: Pray for new homes to be built with climate change and environmental sustainability in mind. Thank God for builders, engineers and all those who are developing technology to reduce emissions and raise energy efficiency. Pray that they may be blessed with wisdom and creative ideas.
March 12th: Travel light and aerodynamic
Action: Remove roof racks and unnecessary weight from your car.
Prayer: God, show me where I need to change, where my life is burdening others and hurting you. Release me to love you more fully and help me to strive for justice for the oppressed and marginalized.
March 11th: Block unused fireplaces
Action: Stuff scrunched up newspaper up unused fireplaces to stop heat escaping through the chimney - a good method as it still allows a little air to circulate. We're half way through the Carbon Fast! How is it going? Spend some time reflecting today on what you've done so far. What's been easy and what's been more challenging? What have you learned?
Prayer: Give thanks for what you've achieved so far and how this has contributed towards reducing carbon use. Pray for inspiration and motivation for the rest of the Carbon Fast.
March 10th: Recycle!
Action: Super recycler at home? How is your office, school, or church? Make a commitment to set up better recycling schemes today and petition your local council for more recycling facilities.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that I won't be satisfied with changes I make in my life, but that I will take them out into my community. Please give me a voice to speak up about the injustice of climate change.
March 9th: Swap shop
Action: Arrange a swapping party with friends. Exchange clothes, DVDs, CDs, jewelery, and bags so everyone gets something new without a trip to the shops.
Prayer: God, thank you for farmers who work hard to provide food and income for their families. Please provide seeds, water, good soil, and the right seasons so that farmers can have adequate food and money to survive. Please help us to live sustainably to protect the land and the supply of water to grow crops.
March 8th: Have a technology fast
Action: Try a day with no TV, no iPod, no computer, and even no cell phone. Why not set aside a technology fast day each month? If you need to use a computer or phone for work, think of something you could do without today. Spend time reflecting on your use of technology - how does it impact your life and the lives of those around you? How could you use it more productively?
Prayer: Pray for governments, businesses, civil society, and the church to champion clean and sustainable development. Ask God to provide developing countries with resources to develop sustainably, and pray that rich countries will support this with technology and finance.
March 7th: Wrapping up Global Poverty Prayer Week
Action & Prayer: As One Voice, the Global Poverty Prayer Week, draws to a close, give thanks to God for his grace and promise in bringing justice to a changing climate. Pray for millions of people be released from poverty and for Christians to increase their awareness of global justice issues.
March 6th: Make do and mend
Action: Do you have clothes you could wear for longer if you gave them a little TLC? Spend some time doing old-fashioned mending, or ask a friend for help.
Prayer: Father God, please calm the unsustainable rate of consumption and transform us into people who are content with what we have rather than striving to own more and more.
March 5th: Ask the climate question
Action: What is your Senator or Congressperson doing to tackle climate change? Write to them or arrange a meeting today.
Prayer: God, thank you for leaders who want to govern this country. Please help them to act justly, live with integrity and make wise decisions that protect people and the planet.
March 4th: Less is more
Action: Try to buy food with the least, or most recyclable, packaging, and avoid plastic bags.
Prayer: Ask God for wisdom for all those seeking to reduce impacts of disasters by preparedness, technology, and education. Thank God for countries who are seeking to build links between climate change adaptation and disaster work, and to continue to bless this work to protect more people from disasters.
March 3rd: Limescale reduces efficiency
Action: Fill your tea kettle with one-third vinegar and two-thirds water and soak overnight. Rinse, then boil the kettle, and discard the water. Then enjoy some tea with a friend!
Prayer: Ask God for clear, truthful, and authentic communication on climate change issues from churches, scientists, government, and the media, and for God's will to be done.
March 2nd: One Voice
Action: One voice. One people. One prayer. This week is Global Poverty Prayer Week. Join in to pray about injustice, pleading for people who are hungry and downtrodden, especially those suffering from the impacts of climate change. When we get quiet and listen to the whispers of God, we find ourselves tuning in to the voices of people in poverty. Drowned out by the noise of a world which beats to the rhythms of wealth and power, they call, unheard, for justice. As we pray, we join their calls and together turn up the volume on their voices.
Prayer: God, unite us in love with our global sisters and brothers. Open our eyes to your transformational vision for our world, in which poverty, oppression, and injustice have no place.
March 1st: Reduce food miles
Action: Buy seasonal and local fruit and vegetables. To find out what's in season, click here. If you are buying goods from overseas, buy Fairtrade whenever possible.
Prayer: Pray for communities that are being overharvested for their goods.
February 28th: Prayer matters
Action and prayer: Pray for poor people affected by the changing climate and for local churches who are helping communities adapt.
February 27th: Sustainable furnishings
Action: When you need to buy furniture next, choose recycled, second-hand or sustainable furniture items to reduce the energy used when products are manufactured and transported. It is estimated that deforestation currently contributes around 18% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions.
Prayer: Thank God for forests, plants, and animals that show the wonderful beauty and diversity of creation. For help to appreciate creation and the resources we have. For a culture that treasures resources rather than plundering them.
February 26th: Easy on the gas!
Action: Avoid excess idling and hard acceleration - the more revs you use, the more fuel you're burning, so ease up!
Prayer: Thank God for global transportation that connects us to the world. Ask God to help governments and businesses agree to policies to reduce emissions from travel and to develop technology to improve fuel efficiency.
February 25th: Cook for free
Action: Stove tops and ovens take a while to cool, so turn them off earlier so your food finishes cooking without using extra energy.
Prayer: Thank God that people around the world are asking for climate justice and that the global church has begun to respond to climate change. Pray for energy and motivation to sustain each person as they continue to seek urgent action to tackle climate change.
February 24th: Eat by candlelight
Action: How many rooms do you light in the evenings? Turn out the lights and enjoy the ambiance of a candlelit dinner!
Prayer: Thank God for bringing light into darkness and pray that he will bring light, peace, and safety to those who are fearful and suffering from the impact of climate change.
February 23rd: Speak up for climate justice
Action: Join the movement to create a new energy system, guided by our love for God and all of His creation. Developed nations emit the highest per capita carbon footprint, but it is the poor in developing countries who are hit hardest by the effects of climate change. Sign our petition here.
Prayer: That God will bring climate justice across the world. That we will be people who bring heaven to earth by the way we live and the choices that we make.
February 22nd: Turn it down
Action: If your water is too hot to handle when you fill the sink or run a bath, your hot water thermostat is probably too high. Try setting it at 140 F (60 C).
Prayer: For developed countries to show more ambition by committing to higher emissions reduction targets and to providing the finances needed to enable clean development and reduced emissions in the developing world.
February 21st: Reflect on your lifestyle
Action: Set aside some time to reflect on how your lifestyle impacts the planet, asking God what you can do to restore your relationship with the world and with your neighbors (local or global).
Prayer: Confess times you have taken the easy route, even when you know it's not where God wants you to go. Ask for help to follow God, trusting that He knows you and has the best for you.
February 20th: Hop a train
Action: If there is a trip you're taking in the next couple of months, look into the option of taking a train rather than driving or flying.
Prayer: For those who are not connected to a form of community. For God to break down barriers that cause loneliness and for love to unite.
February 19th: Switch to green energy
Action: Ask your energy supplier about their renewable energy options. If they don't have any, consider switching to a supplier who does.
Prayer: That God will be our supply of energy and motivation and that He will teach us to worship with our whole lives.
February 18th: Go vegetarian...part-time!
Action: Plan to eat at least two vegetarian meals this week. Carbon emissions from the livestock industry contribute about 18% of total global emissions.
Prayer: That the awareness of the meat industry's contribution to climate change would be increased, and that God would give wisdom and guidance to our world leaders as they respond to environmental issues and the impacts they have.
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