Climate activists stage vigil at Norwich Cathedral 

Christian climate activists staged a vigil outside Norwich Anglican Cathedral on Saturday June 1, in opposition to the cathedral’s use of Barclays Bank.

The local group, from Christian Climate Action, gathered in a vigil and prayed in silence and held signs including "praying for Norwich Cathedral to drop Barclays Bank". Passers-by stopped, read the signs, took photos and asked questions.
 
One of the organisers, Jim Green, said: “The group has held similar vigils outside charities, including Christian Aid and Oxfam head offices last year. These vigils resulted in the organisations leaving Barclays Bank. They have also held vigils outside Sheffield Cathedral, which has also pledged to drop Barclays.
 
Louise Reed from Norwich was also part of the vigil in Norwich. She said: “It's really saddening that Norwich Cathedral banks with Barclays. Barclays is not only funding fossil fuels, it funds a whole range of unethical areas.”

Matt Walker, from Dereham, who was also part of the vigil said: “Having institutions, such as a cathedral, using Barclays, gives Barclays social licence and political influence, as it is presenting itself as a bank associated with positive causes – instead of one which is bankrolling climate collapse.”

He added: “It was really encouraging to hear from cathedral staff that, alongside other dioceses, they are seriously considering routes to a more ethical bank.”
 
In response to the vigil, the Dean and Chapter of Norwich Cathedral said: “Norwich Cathedral uses a number of different banks and follows the Church Commissioners for England Responsible Investment Policy. The Cathedral is dedicated to caring for God’s planet and, as part of this, is working towards achieving Net Zero by 2030.”

Barbara Bryant, Diocesan Environment Officer, Diocese of Norwich, said: “The Diocese of Norwich is working with 12 other Church of England dioceses who also bank with Barclays to explore alternative banking possibilities. Our banking needs are complex, providing vital support to our parishes and our mission and ministry across Norfolk and Waveney. We are also looking to use our collective voice to engage with Barclays regarding their business model of investing in fossil fuels. This is a longer-term work in progress, and we appreciate the prayerful support in our endeavours from Christian Climate Action.”


Pictured above are Christian climate activists during the vigil outside Norwich Cathedral.