Parish Accreditation Gets Gold Star

Over 25 Diocese of Niagara churches were represented at the annual Climate Justice Niagara (CJN) meeting for parish facilitators. The event drew over 40 participants in total to St. James in Dundas, on September 20. 

A powerful opening from steering committee member and Gary Bowron set the tone for the day, exemplifying the climate crisis we are facing but grounding us in prayer, and in the Indigenous practice of honouring the Four Directions. Gary is a parishioner at St. David’s, Welland. 

CJN steering member and the original chair of the group, Sue Carson, presented the renewed Parish Accreditation Program, along with the current chair, Bruce Mackenzie. Sue is a long-time parishioner at St. James, and Bruce is a member and the administrator at St. George’s, Guelph. 

The Accreditation Program, outlined here, is designed to assist parishes in achieving climate-oriented goals by managing 15 different areas connected to parish life. Each of the areas has bronze, silver, and gold levels of achievement. 

The first goal is connected to the Niagara Home Challenge, a survey which parishioners have been asked to complete about the ways in which we care for creation at home. If 80% of parishioners have completed the survey, a parish receives a gold-level credit. 

 The second goal is simply ensuring every parish has a Climate Justice Facilitator. Lighting, water use, maintenance, waste management, vehicle use, heating and cooling, and hands-free worship are just some of the other areas in which a parish can work to achieve a gold-level standing.  

Following the review of this new diocesan program, a guest speaker from Environmental Defence Canada (EDC) provided a great overview of how we can become better climate justice advocates by lobbying elected officials and participating in global campaigns and marches.  

Hasanika Mediwake, Senior Engagement Coordinator from EDC, encouraged participants to set up visits to local MPs and MPPs to make our voices heard. There are many active campaigns on which to take action, including #Stopthe413 and ending gas plants in Ontario. Her presentation is here. 

 Finally, the day wrapped up with an opportunity for Climate Justice Parish Facilitators to hear from the committee and discuss among themselves, the best way to fulfill their roles, ensuring parishes are taking action to fight the climate crisis.