Hundreds of young Christians are to lead a pilgrimage that spans the length of the country – from the G7 to COP26.
Marching from Cornwall to Glasgow, the pilgrims will call on world leaders to address the Climate Emergency. The Young Christian Climate Network has organised a relay route which, instead of a baton, will see young activists meet to pass on the imperative of crucial action needed to reverse climate change.
The relay will move from Truro Cathedral, near to where the G7 leaders are meeting, to Glasgow where COP26 will begin on October 31. World leaders will be meeting in both places and young Christians are hoping nations will take tangible steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The relay is expected to see a number of young people opting to do small walks or cycle rides between the stopping points. It arrives in London on 3rd August – 9th August and there are lots of ways you can get involved; either walking with the relay, planning a “tributary” walk of your own, or attending one of the events in Central London. If you want to find out more and be kept informed, you can sign up at: https://www.yccn.uk/
The exact details of the route and events are TBC. Rough plans are walkers will come through south-west London, via Teddington, Clapham, and then up into Central London. After some events centrally, they’ll then walk from central to north-east London before continuing on to Watford.
Rachel Mander, a young Christian and the relay co-leader, said:
“We stand in solidarity with people and places that are being plunged into debt and poverty because of climate change. More carbon emissions mean more disease, more food insecurity and more poverty.
We will not let the UK government host summits on our doorstep only to hear more talk and no action.”
Volunteers are encouraged to sign-up to support walkers, cyclists, and other pilgrims as the relay passes their diocese – a full list of the route can be found here.
Launching in Truro Cathedral, the relay will begin after the service of blessing led by Bishop Hugh Nelson. A replica boat that displays messages from young people around the world will be placed outside Truro Cathedral following the service.
Truro recently launched an initiative that encouraged young people to sing to world leaders, asking for them to tackle the climate emergency. The song, written by Sir Tim Rice and Peter Hobbs, garnered thousands of views and participation from across the world.
Parishioners, clergy, and bishops are supporting efforts for the world leaders to tackle the climate emergency.