Discover how global faith leaders are championing equitable climate action and justice at COP29.
For International Development Week 2025 (February 2–8) The United Church of Canada highlights global partners who are contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
As we celebrate International Development Week (IDW) 2025, The United Church of Canada reflects on its Centennial commitment to global partnerships, advocacy, and justice. This year, we highlight how global leaders from countries most affected by climate change are driving the conversation on climate justice for their communities and the world, working towards SDG 13: Climate Action.
The United Church of Canada shared its special COP29 accreditation with global partners from the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) and the Organization of African Instituted Churches (OAIC). OAIC was represented by Bishop/Dr. Daniel Chukwudumebi Okoh, Rev. Nicta Lubaale Milton Makiika, and Ms. Phyllis Byrdfrom. Representing NCCP was Patricia Mari Mungcal, who brought firsthand experience of how climate change is devastating the Philippines. Repeated super typhoons, rising sea levels, and extreme heat waves are displacing families, disrupting children's education, and destroying livelihoods. Patricia’s testimony drew attention to the profound human costs of climate disasters, particularly for the most vulnerable.
Climate Justice and the Loss and Damage Fund
At COP29 in Azerbaijan, faith leaders advocated for equitable climate funding through the Loss and Damage Fund, which supports countries like the Philippines and Kenya—those least responsible for climate change but suffering its worst impacts. Despite high hopes, COP29 was a disappointment for many, as pledges fell far short of the $5 trillion needed, with just $300 billion annually promised—funds not accessible until 2035 and without guarantees. Patricia lamented steps backward in addressing human rights, youth, and gender equity.
Yet, she remains resolute. NCCP is implementing bold climate justice programs, from disaster preparedness to grassroots advocacy and long-term goals like food security and sustainable agriculture. With support from global ecumenical partners like The United Church of Canada, ACT Alliance, and the World Council of Churches, Patricia and the NCCP continue to lead with hope and determination.
Churches as Advocates for Climate Finance
Faith communities have been pivotal in advocating for climate justice. As the KAIROS Canada video Coming Together for Climate Justice on Loss and Damage highlights, churches call for fair, accessible grants instead of loans, urging countries like Canada to meet their ecological debt. Canada’s initial $16 million contribution to the Loss and Damage Fund is a start, but far more is needed to achieve climate equity.
There is much we can learn from partners like NCCP in their bold vision and concrete steps to ameliorate climate change. The United Church stands in solidarity with the NCCP and the United Church of Christ in the Philippines, a full communion partner along with many NGOs in the Philippines and around the world. The United Church has chosen to accompany the most vulnerable peoples facing the climate crisis through our relationships with global partners through disaster relief, educational programs, and human rights work. As we walk with global partners, we also know that we are not alone. Thanks be to God.
Centennial Call to Action
As we celebrate 100 years of ministry, let us reaffirm our commitment to a world transformed by love and justice. Join us in advocating for climate justice.
What Can You Do to Contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals?
- Advocate for change to climate policies with the Canadian government and other decision-makers. Urge the Canadian government to scale up its contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.
- Join Citizens for Public Justice and Canadian Foodgrains Bank on February 13, 2025, for an informative discussion on Climate Finance and Canada’s Contributions, a timely webinar exploring the outcomes of COP29 and Canada’s role in addressing the climate crisis through international finance.
- Read more about the church’s climate change efforts.
- Give to Mission and Service to help support Canadian and global partners working towards meeting the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Follow United Action for Justice on social media and United Church News and the Round the Table blog for more information on how your community of faith can learn more, participate, and #GoForTheGoals!
- Share A Commitment to Creation Care, a prayer calling us to take action for a sustainable future.
- Share a prayer for the end of gender inequality.