The delegates of the world networks of humanitarian agencies that are members of Caritas internationalis and Cidse from 25 countries around the world attended an ecumenical celebration in the Lutheran cathedral, in Copenhagen, officiated by the archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, before the Queen of Denmark and many negotiators who are personally taking part in the UN Climate Change Conference (7-18 December).
Williams mentioned “the deep religious grounds for our commitment to the environment” and asked those presents whether “their personal attitudes and lifestyles” are right for the respect of the world that “God called us to inhabit”. “How can we build international institutions that can make sure resources are given to those who need them?”, he wondered, wishing these funds will fill the pockets of the poorer and more disadvantages ones.
“We cannot show the right side of love – stated the archbishop of Canterbury – unless we, as humans, work towards protecting the Earth as everyone’s safe dwelling”. The day before, Saturday 12th December, the Anglican archbishop Desmond Tutu had given to the UN head negotiator, Yvo de Boer, half a million signatures collected among the Christians of the world, asking the world leaders to reach “a fair, effective and serious agreement that gives priority to the poor”.