Canterbury Commitment Group

Important issue raised at special interest group

There were helpful presentations from Quaker Peace & Social Witness, the Quaker Council for European Affairs, the Quaker United Nations Office and Living Witness at a special interest group on Saturday. Laurie Michaelis’ final remarks raised an important issue.

He spoke of his work among climate change scientists and decision makers. Decision makers do not believe that the public want to make the changes needed to avert a climate catastrophe. The remark, for some, was rich in insights about how decision makers work, psychological inertia and self-interest in diverse groups. It touched on more spiritual aspects of belief and trust. We should draw out these implications.

Laurie went on to expose a (new?) role for Quakers in the lobbies and in climate change organisations.

Unlike most other organisations, Friends are not a one-issue party. Our view is for positive change grounded in moral principle. We are not easily dismissed as fanatics and cranks. Because of our track record in social reform, we are listened to with credibility.

Laurie’s remarks point the way for us to ‘punch above our weight’ to take a lead and have a constructive effect. A Friend wondered: are we willing and ready to take the lead in this ministry?

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