UCC Divests from Fossil Fuels

As a lifelong member of the United Church of Christ (UCC), I feel so proud of my denomination’s actions on July1 when the national synod voted to divest from fossil fuels. The United Church of Christ has a tradition of leading in matters of faith and social change. Right here in Warren County, the UCC commissioned the study that launched the national environmental justice movement. The UCC has also led in matters of racial equality, women’s equality and LGBT equality. Now the UCC has become the first major denomination in the USA to commit to divestiture, joining hundreds of colleges and universities around the country doing the same. Read more here about the UCC becoming the first church to divest from fossil fuels.

The national leaders also passed resolutions calling for the end of mountain top removal of coal. And they urge individual congregations to get energy audits and work toward being carbon neutral in their buildings and on their campuses. Our North Carolina UCC congregations are already on board. Elon Community UCC and First Congregational UCC of Asheville both have installed solar panels, testifying to their commitment to caring for creation and supporting clean renewable energy.

I encourage all faith communities in our state to heed this renewed and strong call to lead the way to a clean, carbon neutral energy future. Check out the NCIPL website for tools, opportunities and ideas on how to start. If you’re not already a Participating Congregation, become one. Request an energy audit – remember there is no charge. Invite us to come present a program. Submit your success stories to spread the word.

There are many ways to become more fully engaged. Please join your efforts together with ours. This is an exciting time!

Kathy Shea, NCIPL Senior Advisor

North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light (NCIPL) is a program of the North Carolina Council of Churches. NCIPL works with faith communities to address the causes and consequences of global climate change and promote practical, hope-filled responses through education, outreach, and public policy advocacy. Please visit our website for information on our current programs, campaigns, and events.