JourneyOnline
MANY different faith communities left the car at home last week to walk, ride and even skateboard to worship.
Ride to Worship Week is an initiative by multi-faith organisation Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC) which was held last week across all states.
In rural communities some biked kilometres up to 12 kms from home to worship. Many had environmentally-themed worship, shared meals and activities for children.
Donna Muston from Biloela Uniting Church in Queensland said that all ages took part in the ride ranging from a four year old to over 50s.
"One person shared their reflections on cycling and we concluded worship with a Blessing of the Bikes.
"I believe this event drew people together.
"New friendships and links were formed, and it was especially encouraging to see people from different sections of the community worshipping together."
People from approximately 40 religious communities across Australia, took part and celebrated in unique ways. This movement showed that across different religions there is awareness that we have a responsibility to actively care for the earth.
The young and old mixed their different modes of transport to accommodate for their tastes.
The community at Brunswick Uniting Church in Victoria had youngsters on skateboards (ripsticks) to an older woman on an electric tricycle.
"It keeps you fit and keeps the weight off, plus it costs much less than a car."
Ride to Worship Week encouraged greater group reflection on the connections between spirituality and transport behaviour.
For more information please visit ARRCC's website: www.arrcc.org.au/ride-to-worship-week-2012.
Photo : Brunswick Uniting Church. Photo courtesy of Australian Religious Response to Climate Change
