“Stop Crucifying Creation”: Christian Climate Activists Challenge Church of England on Fossil Fuels

Environmental campaign group Christian Climate Action (CCA) has issued a bold new appeal to the Church of England, urging it to “stop crucifying creation” in the face of the global climate crisis. In a document circulated to church leaders and members, CCA called on the CofE to “find its courage,” divest fully from fossil fuels, and publicly confront corporations that profit from environmental destruction. The campaign also encourages churches to rewild their lands, using the vast acres owned by the denomination to model ecological responsibility.

Speaking to Premier Christian News, Rev Helen Burnett, a vicar within the CofE and a campaigner for CCA, explained the power of the movement’s language: “If we think of Christ crucified, we see love on the cross, and the resurrection light that comes from that. The crisis of our time means that loving our neighbour is being crucified daily through climate change, which will disproportionately devastate the global south.” She emphasized that the group’s call is rooted in love, while acknowledging that many dioceses are already working toward the Church’s 2030 net zero target.

With around 105,000 acres of land under its stewardship, the Church of England holds significant influence in shaping ecological practice. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has previously noted that 82,000 acres are currently used for farming, highlighting the potential for land use to aid the net zero mission. As the Church marks Creationtide—a season of gratitude for nature—CCA hopes its message will stir both leaders and congregants to take stronger, prophetic action. Rev Burnett added: “It’s so easy to feel we lack agency, but if the Church leads the way, it empowers others to step forward in the fight for our planet’s future.”