FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Survey Results: Young Christians Urge Church Action on Climate Change
Markham, Ont., April 12, 2023 – New findings revealed in a national survey conducted by A Rocha and Tearfund Canada of church-attending young adults show the Canadian Church must use its influence to engage creation care. It’s a wake-up call for Canadian churches on an issue critical to engaging the young faithful. Less than one in five people under the age of 40 feel that their church is influential in how they respond to climate change.
`“It appears like the clock is ticking and there may not be a future world for my children or my grandchildren,” said one survey respondent.
Young Christians surveyed see a clear connection between climate crisis and global injustice, with vulnerable people disproportionately affected by environmental challenges. They understand changing weather patterns are increasing the burden on people in low-income countries and believe the Church is ignoring this message by not taking meaningful action.
SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS:
- Over one in three young Christians said climate change is among their highest concerns.
- 92 per cent of young Christians urge Churches to do more on Earth care and believe action is essential for the Church’s mission.
- 90 per cent of young Christians between the ages of 18-40 are worried about climate change and nature loss, with 91 per cent believing it’s important to act now.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
A Rocha and Tearfund are hosting events in Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg where the survey results will be released and Clergy will engage with climate specialists in panel discussions on how to engage young Christians in a response to climate change.
When: April 18-20, 2023
Locations:
- Winnipeg
- When: April 18
- Time: 11:30am – 2pm CST
- Location: Canadian Mennonite University
- 600 Shaftesbury Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2
- Vancouver
- When: April 19
- Time: 11:30am – 2pm PST
- Location: Tenth Church
- 11 W 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1R5
- Toronto
- When: April 20
- Time: 11:30am – 2pm EST
- Location: Tyndale University
- 3377 Bayview Ave, North York, ON M2M 3S4
Survey data origin: Tearfund Canada and A Rocha Canada, two of Canada’s leading charities on faith, creation, climate and care for impoverished people, are available to speak about the need for Churches to act on climate change.
Interviews can be scheduled with Matthew Schroeder, Tearfund Canada – mschroeder@tearfund.ca or (647) 262-3360.
-30-
To receive a copy of the report or for more information please contact:
Matthew Schroeder; Marketing & Communications Director Tearfund Canada mschroeder@tearfund.ca – (647) 262-3360
Or visit https://tearfund.ca/climate-survey-results-launch/