Not Looking to Start a Climate Cult

Text and image by Rick McVicar 

     I am discovering that not everyone is on board with a need for climate spiritual awakening. 

     Indeed, climate activism has been labeled a cult by conservative think tanks, media and Christian leaders. On social media, the climate cult has been dubbed a competing religion to Christianity. 

     I have read posts on Facebook claiming that climate will not end the world, as such an event is waiting for the second coming of Christ. Conservative media outlets accuse climate cult activists of being authoritarian. 

     That makes writing a blog about the intersection of Jesus’ teachings with our current climate crisis an uphill battle. When you add my trance music and art postings, not to mention my YouTube animated videos, my blog may very well look like the promotion of a climate cult. 

     That said, I want to assure you that I have no interest in leading a climate cult. I was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and am currently a member of Just North United Church of Christ in Columbus, Ohio. Both denominations rely on democratic processes for church governance. I am a strong advocate for democratic principles, so I have no interest in leading a climate cult. 

     I just find that I am emotionally impacted by dramatic changes in our environment. Other people express their concerns to me as well, so I know I am not alone. I would like to do something about the climate crisis besides experiencing negative feelings. 

     When I see the strength of climate denial, I realize that arguing with reason, facts and logic is not going to solve anything. If that were the case, the problem would have been solved by now.

     So I want to persuade on an emotional and intuitive level. I want my readers to touch their soulful side, their yearnings and desire for meaning and purpose. I want my readers to contemplate the depths of their connection with nature. My hope is that by spiritualizing the climate crisis, people will be naturally motivated to take action. Climate action will then feel as if it makes perfect sense. 

     As you go about solving the climate crisis, may you have plenty of artful health.            

                          Click on image to go to animated trance music video on YouTube.