The effects of the war in Ukraine go far beyond the terrible destruction and loss of life in Ukraine itself. They extend to climate policy as well. The war has implications for the people and climate of the north, especially the Arctic. How the war will impact the work of the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental body of eight nations working to stem the tide of warming climate in the region.
Russia is a member of the Council and the other seven nations, including the United States, are concerned. The Council developed a series of agreements on issues such as search and rescue, animal and climate welfare, but now with the war Canada especially is concerned about its defenses compromised by the melting ice.
Over the past few years Russian leaders have pushed issues of military security into the dialog regarding the Arctic, seen as a source of fossil fuel development. The United States has not been concerned enough about these issues, which go far beyond even whales, polar bears, and seals. Lent calls us to reflect on our policies and actions in the Arctic. We pray that Arctic cooperation will survive.
Prayer for the Day
Entering the season of Lent, a time of reflection, O God
May we consider how we have failed you and ourselves;
Holding onto a world that has changed before our eyes, O God,
We search for respite from the troubles around us.
Guide us, O Lord, so we are able to find the meaning
You have intended for us in our lives.
In the name of the One who shows us the way,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The world cannot live without the Arctic. It affects every living thing on earth and acts as a virtual thermostat, reflecting sunlight and cooling the planet.
- Phillipe Cousteau, Jr., environmentalist
Even the tiniest of flowers can have the toughest roots.
- Shannon M. Mullen, Canadian teacher and poet
A pure heart create for me, O God, and a firm spirit renew within me.
Do not fling me from your presence and your holy spirit take not from me.
Give me back the gladness of your rescue, and with a noble spirit sustain me.
Let me teach transgressors your ways, and offenders will come back to you.
Psalm 51: 10-12 (Robert Alter trans)