Global Warming: A Religious Issue Questions and Answers about Science, Public Policy, and Faith Why is global warming a religious issue? First, as Psalm 24 tells us, "the Earth is the Lord's and all that is in it." We do not own it, but are to care for it as a sacred trust. Global warming will hurt God's creation. Second, as God's people we are "our brothers' and sisters' keepers" and are to attend to the well-being of our neighbors. Global warming will hurt God's people. Third, God requires us "to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly...." Because we of the industrialized nations created the increase of greenhouse gases, we have a special responsibility to do something about it. What tasks does global warming present us as people of faith and as citizens? To take responsibility for dealing with global warming in our own choices and actions before expecting or demanding this of others, To reduce our use of energy and of things we don't really need that require energy to make and to use, To help those in need improve their quality of life without using more energy from damaging sources, To inform ourselves about public policy relating to global warming at all levels - local, regional, national and international. What can you do? WRITE YOUR SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVE! Tell them that the US has a moral obligation, rooted in all our nation’s faith traditions, to participate in strong and fair international agreements and adopt strong national policies to reduce the pollution that contributes to global warming. This is the most important thing you can do right now! RESOLVE TO USE LESS ENERGY! Use electricity and water, especially hot water, only when needed. Use thermostat settings and insulation to conserve energy with heating, hot water and air conditioning . Use a car and airplane less and a bike, bus, train or the sidewalk more. Buy the most efficient appliances, lighting equipment, and cars available. Discover new ways, and rediscover old ways - to have fun, get things done and enjoy God's creation without using electricity or fuel. ASK YOUR CONGREGATION TO MAKE A COMMITMENT to care for God's creation through worship, teaching and learning, congregational lifestyle, and community, national and global involvement.