Four Christian climate change activists have been arrested after climbing onto the roof of Bath Abbey to unfurl a large banner. The four members of the Christian Climate Action group had taken part in a tour of the tower before accessing the roof of the tower and dropping a banner that read ‘Don’t Crucify Creation’.
Avon and Somerset Constabulary had to be called when the protesters refused to come down. Several ambulances and fire crews were also called out to the incident. Roads also had to be closed around the city landmark. Rev Bill White, 70, who took part in the process said the action was about asking the Church not to sit on the fence on climate action and promote renewable energies as a way to protect God’s creation, that is our planet.
He said: “When I was a parish priest, one of my favourite places to be was the top of the church tower. It gave a sense of the bigger picture, and the interconnectedness of everything. In retirement my biggest regret is to have allowed, in active ministry, so much energy to be consumed by the trivial.
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“The greatest evil in our world today is the injustice of climate change. Whilst many are working on this, we feel unable to make a difference. This evil is perpetuated by the institutions and corporate bodies that have hoodwinked us into thinking it is too late, too costly, or not even necessary.
(Image: Christian Climate Action)
“The fossil fuel companies, their bankers and insurers, the billionaire-owned media, and their in-pocket politicians must be denounced. The church, rooted in love and justice, with the courage of Jesus, must say loudly “Stop Crucifying Creation”.”
A spokesperson for the police force confirmed the arrests. They said they were called out to Bath Abbey at around 12.30pm and tours to the tower had to be cancelled while the protesters were on the roof.
They said: “We have arrested four people following reports of a group gaining access to a tower room in Bath Abbey and refusing to leave. Officers were called just before 12.30pm on Saturday 13 September by Abbey staff saying they were unable to access the room and had to cancel scheduled Abbey tours.
“As the incident was at height, the fire and rescue and ambulance services were also called in, and nearby roads closed. The individuals ignored a formal direction to leave and subsequently officers gained access to the room and escorted them out.”
The police spokesperson added: “Four adults – two men and two women – were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass at 3.45pm and remain in police custody.”
