Bishops Warn of Creation in Crisis Amid Disasters

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent, Worthy News

ISLAMABAD/ROME/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – Europe’s church leaders have warned of a “world in crisis” as wildfires, floods, melting glaciers, and deadly heatwaves devastate communities across Europe and Asia. Their concern comes ahead of the 2025 Season of Creation, the annual period of prayer for the environment running from September 1 to October 4.

In a joint statement, the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE) and the Conference of European Churches (CEC) recalled the prophet Isaiah’s vision of a “garden of peace,” linking it to this year’s theme: “Peace with Creation.”

They urged Christians to live more soberly, respect creation, and reject exploiting natural resources and people.

The appeal comes as officials say climate-linked disasters intensify across Europe and Asia.

In Spain and Portugal, record wildfires have burned more than 560,000 hectares, leaving at least six people dead and thousands displaced, while disrupting the historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Nearly 2,000 Spanish troops were deployed in one of the region’s largest firefighting operations.

ALPS GLACIERS SHRINKING

In the Italian Alps, the Ventina Glacier has shrunk so dramatically that scientists now rely on drones to monitor it, while thawing permafrost in the Dolomites triggered rockfalls that forced hundreds of hikers to evacuate.

Further north, Scandinavia has endured an unprecedented heatwave, with Finland recording 22 consecutive days above 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit).

Hospitals were overwhelmed, dozens drowned while seeking relief in lakes and rivers, and wildlife collapsed under the strain.

In Asia, monsoon flooding has killed hundreds in Pakistan, Nepal, and Indian-administered Kashmir, displacing tens of thousands.

Also, China has suffered deadly landslides after torrential rains, while parts of India face severe droughts threatening crops and drinking water supplies.

Climate scientists estimate the latest European heatwave killed 2,300 people, with around 1,500 deaths allegedly directly linked to fossil-fuel emissions that intensified the heat.

NATURAL VARIABILITY

However, skeptical experts argue that “natural variability and rapid urbanization”—the so-called “heat island effect” in cities play a role.

European church leaders stressed that this year’s Season of Creation coincides with preparations for the United Nations’ COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil.

They urged world leaders to prioritize the poor and vulnerable and to guide international relations toward the common good.

With wildfires, floods, and glaciers collapsing, bishops suggest their prayers for creation now echo in a world in crisis.

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