StOM StOM 1504 | Page 13

So to the question, did we cause climate change? No changes to our climate occur naturally, but our activities are now adding to and modifying these cycles. Have the world’s faiths contributed to this effect? Probably yes, if we look at the archaeological and astronomical evidence from the religious monuments, such as the Pyramids and Stonehenge, enabled by the excess production and alterations agriculture has made to the landscape. We seem to have acquired belief held in common to bring us together in ever larger groups to undertake such projects. Out of these, have grown jointly our modern faiths and science, which continue to fuel the economic and social competition for land and resources. So what should we do? We in the West are described as an increasingly post- secular society or even a post enlightenment age, it has proven morally difficult for us to continue to impose our changing values on others and especially the emerging economies. We can support global organisations, such as the UN to intercede and moderate in events. However local actions may ultimately be more effective. By embracing spirituality, in the living of our lives more humbly and simply, sharing our rituals, demonstrating our faiths and science are compatible and showing tolerance to each other, we may yet survive the impending crises. Mic Starbuck FRSA, March 2015 Magazine Feedback: The newly sized magazine was received with positivity by its readers and was also circulated in pdf format to those of the congregation and friends who have provided their email addresses. The printing was completed by our neighbours Kings Park Parish Church and the remittance for the A5 magazine was half the price due to the reduction in paper used. In April we will also reduce our monthly postal costs due to the increased circulation of the electronic version of the magazine. Can I again remind all members of the congregation have a responsibility to contribute to the magazine to make the contents as relevant and interesting for all our readers? Don’t be shy, email or give me a hand written copy of your items for inclusion and remember, there is the summer magazine which is a double edition. All items gratefully received. Morag [email protected] StOM Page 13