Speaking Up for Climate Action
Training for the Council of Bishops Members
Live Via Zoom | September 18, 2026 | UTC 1700-1900 | ET 1:00-3:00 pm
All United Methodists are called to heal our relationship with God’s good creation. Bishops especially have a unique capacity to speak prophetically, build structures in their conferences, and inspire and advocate for change.
In response to the UM Creation Justice Movement Open Letter to the Council of Bishops, the Council made a strong statement of commitment to climate justice on behalf of the whole church.
This training, requested by the bishops, will provide—
- Practical inspiration
- Clarity about the need for transformational change
- Distinct actions bishops can take in their unique contexts to live into commitments The United Methodist Church has taken in general, and the Council of Bishops has made specifically.
Bishops will leave with a greater understanding of—
- Biblical and Wesleyan theology for preaching and teaching about the climate crisis even in challenging contexts
- The scientific and moral case for a rapid and just global transition away from fossil fuels towards conservation and renewable power
- How to advocate and lead action for climate justice for those who bear the worst impacts of fossil fuel pollution and climate disruption
- Ways to establish or support church programs that empower clergy and laity for faithful action for climate stability and justice
- Resources for further learning and action.

A recording of the session and other related online resources will be made available to anyone who registers.
This Training is being developed by the United Methodist Creation Justice Movement in collaboration with Garrett’s Center for Ecological Regeneration.
Resources to start with:
- The United Methodist Social Principles The Community of All Creation and other United Methodist Statements about Creation Justice
- The United Methodist Creation Justice Movement website, with newsletters, webinars, annual conference teams and more
- Love in a Time of Climate Change: Honoring Creation, Establishing Justice, a Wesleyan approach to climate change and climate justice by Sharon Delgado
