A first-of-its-kind climate prayer vigil in Oak Ridge on Sunday will feature a free concert and faith leaders, scientists, and citizens concerned about climate change, a press release said.
The concert at Melton Lake Park will feature Sparky and Rhonda Rucker of Maryville. Others participating in Sunday’s vigil and concert are Tennessee Interfaith Power and Light, or TIPL; Citizens Climate Coalition, or CCC; and prominent Tennessee climate organizers, faith leaders, lawmakers, environmental and municipal organizations, and concerned citizens, the press release said.
It’s the first Tennessee Interfaith Power and Light Climate Prayer Vigil in Oak Ridge. Sunday’s event will include statements on the urgency of climate action, music, candles, prayers by three faith leaders, a silent meditation, and a benediction.
Then, hosted by the Citizens Climate Coalition, climate organizations, scientists, and others will offer opportunities for effective action, the press release said.
Free snacks and drinks will be provided. Then, Sparky and Rhonda Rucker will perform traditional acoustic blues and their own climate songs.
“Afterward, all are encouraged to stay, connect, visit tables, and plan actions,” the release said.
The events start at 3 p.m. at Melton Lake Park Pavilion on Melton Lake Drive in east Oak Ridge on Sunday, October 11.
Here is the schedule:
- Vigil—3 p.m. to about 3:45 p.m.
- Tabling, discussions, and interviews—about 3:45 p.m.-4:15 p.m.
- Free concert—4:15 p.m.—5:15 or 5:45 p.m.
- Park closing—9 p.m.
“Ninety-seven percent of climate scientists agree human-caused climate change is an urgent, irreversible threat to our future—perhaps the greatest challenge we humans have ever faced, and thus also our greatest opportunity to do lasting good,” the press release said. “But voters and politicians still believing all those scientists are lying block legislative action. Following up on Pope Francis’ call to action, and leading up to the crucial December UN Climate Change Conference in Paris, climate scientists, faith leaders, and activists will discuss ways to overcome educational and political hurdles to achieving sustainable climate policy.”
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Sparky and Rhonda Rucker at Louie Bluie 2015 (Submitted photo)
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