GreenFaith - Sadness, Anger, and Prayers re: the CA Fires

Download Prayers from Diverse Religions for Those Suffering From Wildfires Yesterday, as we paid our respects to an environmentally-minded US president who was ahead of his time, over 45 square miles of California burned down and hundreds of thousands of people were forced to flee. This juxtaposition is shocking, but is not new. The Southern California wildfires are the latest tragic example of a community devastated by climate disaster fueled by corporate greed. Not too long ago, it was the mountains of North Carolina and the adjacent states. And the list goes on. No one should be running through the streets, hoping to get out before it’s too late. If we are willing to read history, learn from science, and show a bit of humility, we know it could have been different—if people had embraced the truth President Carter was bold enough to face 45 years ago. Whether it is the greed and deception of the fossil fuel industry; the banking, investment, and insurance industries’ unwillingness to consider the moral implications of their investments; or power-hungry political leaders willing to sell their souls for a seat in congress or the White House, the rest of us are left frightened and outraged. We ask: “How bad does it have to get before our leaders wake up?” Our incoming president has insisted repeatedly, with pride, that his administration will roll back climate protections and subsidize the production of fossil fuels. This could not be more morally wrong. I don't know about you, but I desperately want our children to grow up with clean air, clean water, healthy food, a home, and a decent job. These should be human rights.   No one should be running through the streets hoping to get out before it’s too late.   On short notice, we are providing some sample prayers for your community as you pray this weekend. We offer them in humility; we have developed them quickly. We would also welcome hearing from you about the prayers you use, the sermons or spoken teachings which you deliver. Please send those to me. We want to hear from you. In solidarity, fear, and resolve, Rev. Amy Brooks Paradise GreenFaith US Coordinator