Transformation begins in the heart, but how can we share about caring for creation in a way that these seeds can take root and bear fruit? In Brazil, Renew our World, a global movement of Christians campaigning to make the world more fair and sustainable, who Tearfund works with, is equipping Christans to find innovative ways to invite more people to respond to God’s call to care for the environment. People like Clarita and Cássio are now leading their own movement for change – find out more and how we can pray for them.
Clarita and Cássio grow organic yerba mate on their farm in Brazil. The plant is used to make tea and energy drinks, and so has a large market. A Fair Trade seal is also used on the drinks once produced, thanks to the practices and values that they uphold on their farm.
Clarita and Cássio don’t use pesticides on their farm, as they have harmful effects on the soil, animals and for the wider environment. The pair also continue to look for alternative ways they can use the resources that the local forest provides for them, as Clarita says: ‘[Working with] the forest and not against it, always in this harmonious way.’
But one of the biggest challenges they have is getting the wider church involved in caring for creation.
Getting the church talking
‘I have always been interested in issues related to the role of Christians in the face of creation,’ explains Clarita. ‘But this question has always intrigued me: “Why didn't we talk about this subject within the church?”
‘Since I was little I always tried to bring these issues to the debate – seeking to discover what the Bible says about our relationship with nature.’
It was through asking these questions that Clarita found out about Renew our World, and how they are working to help local churches speak up and advocate to care for the environment.
Through joining Renew our World, Clarita and Cássio have been able to learn more about how they can take care of God’s creation, as well as how they can equip others to do the same.
