Peace for the Planet

Sheila Watt-Cloutier

For the second time in the 21st century the Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to an environmentalist. Wangari Maathai, the African activist, won in 2004 for her remarkable "regreening" work. Once again we are reminded that shalom is not just about relationships between human beings.

This year's recipients are former US vice-president Al Gore and the United Nations committee on climate change. Gore's film An Inconvenient Truth captured the world's attention and motivated individuals and governments to work toward making peace with our battered planetary home. Bravo.

I am sorry that the Canadian nominee, Sheila Watt-Cloutier, did not share or win the prize. This 53-year-old Inuit climate change activist has brought attention to the rapidly changing environment in the North. Originally she was co-nominated for the prize with Gore, and she is certainly deserving.

Jesus called us to be peace-makers and he embodies the deepest meaning of peace or shalom. As his followers we can laud the example of those who are making peace with the planet and do our part for positive change.