The “Peoples Emergency Briefing” was screened at St Mary’s Church, Newton Flotman last week with about 50 people in attendance. This included local people, church members, guests from nearby churches and those from the local area who had found the screening advertised on the national website: National Emergency Briefing. Eco Chaplain, Richard Beach, tells us more:
The film lasts about 50 minutes and contains honest and even alarming reports from scientists, economists and even a military man on the challenges our country faces as a result of the climate emergency. It also emphasises possible solutions. It is chaired by Chris Packham and contains comments from ordinary viewers and celebrities.
The screening was followed by a time of reflection, reaction and discussion. The reaction to the film was really positive. One person said: “I thought it was really helpful. Good – if a bit scary – to hear all the challenges we face in one film but really positive to hear there are solutions out there if only we would get on and use them.” There is a lot of information in the film and several people said they would like to see it again. At discussion time several people expressed frustration with the way things are, the way things are managed. (e.g. water companies, vested interests).
People were encouraged to write to their MP requesting a showing of the film on national television. Three people expressed an interest in arranging a showing in their own area, church or workplace.
We were aware that the film might cause distress and had made arrangements to care for people who were very troubled, but in the event such care was not needed.
Bishop Graham has described this film as “a wake up for us all” and has urged us to share it in our churches and for our local communities. Our experience of it was very positive and we would encourage others to arrange a screening in their area.
(NB Screening the film in a medieval building with no wi-fi was challenging – but doable!).
Richard is happy to be contacted to discuss how to run a screening at: richard.beach1508@gmail.com
A dedicated Church Resource Pack has been developed to help you host a screening, whether for your local community or congregation. It includes practical guidance, ideas for facilitating discussion, and suggestions for follow-up activities.