The Movement is Glowing

It's not even Christmas and already church bells are ringing out in countries around the world. It's all an effort to demonstrate the commitment of Christians who want to see the Copenhagen, Denmark Summit on climate change craft a global treaty.

In an act of unity, church bells in 139 countries tolled 350 times today. The action was initiated by the World Council of Churches with several people holding candlelight vigils simultaneously. Countries included New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden and the US.

350 represents the 'parts per million' that scientists agree is the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. Emissions from industries, coal-fired electricity and cars significantly contribute to making the climate warmer. Over 100 nations agree that keeping emissions under 350ppm is the solution to harnessing the dangers of global warming that causes water levels to rise and dramatic swings in the weather.

One of those events was tonight from 7-7:30 in Schenectady at the First Unitarian Society Church on Wendell Ave. PilotGirl was there lighting candles of hope and standing in solemn solidarity with like-minded advocates. We sang 'Joy to the Earth':

Joy to the Earth - the time has come,
Our work has just begun.
Our Earth we'll not abuse,
Clean energy we'll use -
The power of wind and sun,
The power of wind and sun,
The power, the power of wind and sun.

No more let coal and oil burn.
And wars the men employ.
We own the Earth apology.
We'll use our green technology
To bring the Earth new joy, to bring the Earth new joy,
To bring, to bring the Earth new joy.

Earth's atmosphere so clean and pure
New health to all will bring -
To all her living creatures,
To all her natural features.
Now heaven and nature sing, now heaven and nature sing,
Now heaven, now heaven and nature sing.