Glenise Morgan sent ECI this update: there has been quite a lot of activity, despite the Covid19 restrictions affecting the Ballycastle Centre.
Cop26: Several members of the group attended the Prayer and Climate Justice event organised by Christian Aid, Tearfund and others in Belfast before joining the Climate Coalition NI march on 6 November. A number of members attended, and contributed to the COP26 event in Glasgow, including one of our members, Zand Craig, who provided a video link on his work with the World Green Building Council.
A number of members have been attending the Laudato Si seminars hosted by St Colmcilles Parish.
Climate Conference for Chaplains: Cheryl Meban, Chaplain at Ulster University, Coleraine, is organising an all-Ireland conference for university and college chaplains on Climate Justice in January. Our leader, Alex Wimberley, will be one of the speakers and the group will be visiting the Ballycastle Centre.
Public Theology Appointment: A new Public Theology post has been created at Corrymeela and Jonny Clarke, who worked with an environmental group in Rostrevor, County Down, has been appointed. Johnny talked to us about his role, recognising the link between his future work and climate justice. We warmly welcome him and look forward to working together.
Corrymeela and Covid19: At the recent Corrymeela AGM, it was noted that, although Covid19 restrictions had led to the Ballycastle Centre being essentially closed to visitors and programme participants for 14 months, with the consequent reduction in income, this had also created an opportunity to review policies and programmes, carry out risk assessments and maintain the centre – with the help of a dedicated group of gardening volunteers. It is now ready to welcome people into a safe and attractive environment and Corrymeela’s supporters have stepped forward with some very generous donations. Working on-line, some 762 people were supported over the year, mainly from marginalised communities. One successful initiative was liaising with the local Foodbank, to send out around 1,600 hot meals prepared by the kitchen staff.
It was noted that one of Corrymeela’s strengths is the sense of well-being which is generated by the welcoming atmosphere and soothing environment at the Centre’s lovely location.