Calay News
Activists fighting for climate change are using Protestant churches in Berlin as their meeting and rallying points to pressure the government to act on climate change. The campaign involves two weeks of road-blocking protests, which have been criticized by politicians, including members of the government. However, despite the criticisms, churches have opened their doors to the activists, with the Church Council of St. Thomas stating that they want to help the participants be at peace.
The Church of Gethsemane, which played a crucial role in the peaceful revolution that toppled the Berlin Wall, has hosted open debates on climate change every day this week before passing the baton to another temple. The Church of Gethsemane has defended the importance of a platform for direct and peaceful communication, saying that the strength of the Church lies in bringing people with different opinions together.
Although the support from churches has generated controversy given the negative public perception of the Letzte Generation’s protests, the pastor of the Church of Gethsemane, Aljona Hofmann, highlighted the importance of people “leaving their bubbles” and talking to others. She acknowledged that not all members of the congregation supported the actions of the Letzte Generation, but she emphasized that each person should find their own way to think about what they and society can do to protect the climate. Activist Axel Hake described the contribution of the churches as a real signal that they are anchored in society. Another activist, Cosima Santoro, believes that Jesus would have approved of their protests, as he also caused disturbances and continues to do so today.
