By: Robin Porter Smith, DM, Environmental Justice Coordinator, AMEC Christian Education Department
Last year, African Methodist Episcopal members were asked to participate in the climate justice survey. The climate justice survey is an annual survey sponsored by Blessed Tomorrow, a branch of ecoAmerica and a partner with the AME church’s support of climate justice. The survey was conducted from May 15, 2025, through June 30, 2025. A total of 866 AMEs completed the survey. AME respondents included 70% laity and 30% clergy. The AME survey results noted the AME concern for climate change is greater than the United States response for the following concerns:
- Climate change: 91% for AMEs and 71% for the US
- Feelings of others for climate change: 59% for AMEs and 56% for the US
- Religious beliefs confirm a responsibility to address climate change: 74% for AMEs and 40% for the US
African Methodist Episcopal member responses indicate that climate change remains in the top five concerns in the US, along with health care, racism, the economy, and gun control. Between 77% and 88% of AMEs and 55% and 69% of the US believe that addressing climate change will improve health and the economy.
It should be noted that, in addressing others’ feelings about climate change, AMEs are more likely to discuss it than the US average. African Methodist Episcopal members are also more likely to take action on climate change regarding conserving energy in the home. Areas of improvement for climate change actions in the US include biking or walking, public transportation, solar power, and driving a hybrid car.
Additional survey results are available on the Christian Education website (ameced.com/climatejustice). It must be noted that God entrusted humankind with stewardship over God’s creation, which includes the Earth (Genesis 1:26-28). The survey results are limited to AMEs in the United States. However, the AME Church is a global church. Climate change affects the Earth, and climate justice requires a global response. The AME Church continues to lead efforts to provide a global response.All AMEs are invited to join over 100 AME churches in the One Home One Future initiative for free resources, events, ongoing support, and preaching resources (https://www.onehomeonefuture.org). All AME pastors are invited to take the free, on-demand climate ambassador training for clergy. All AMEs are invited to complete the AME Climate Ambassador Training individually or as a group. Ambassador training is available on the Christian Education website (ameced.com/climatejustice).
