9th November 2026

Around 70,000 people have gathered in Antalya, Türkiye for the COP31 climate conference. They represent nearly 200 countries across the world and meet at a time of climate crisis. Global temperatures already stand at about 1.4C above pre-industrial levels, and 1.5C, the goal set under the 2015 Paris Agreement, is very likely to be breached. The UN Environment Programme's latest report said last month that it is now about managing the overshoot, to then return below 1.5C. Scientists predict that 2026 will be the world's hottest year on record. The World Meteorological organisation has published its COP31 update report today.  It states that the past four years have been the warmest in the 177-year observational record, and the heat in the oceans is breaking records for the tenth year in a row. In Delhi the air is think and dark with pollution. The University of Colorado Boulder have warned that Wildfires could damage or destroy buildings in the United States at nearly three times the recent rate by 2060 under a scenario with moderate climate action and no new fire protections. In Bangkok, Thailand, accumulated rainfall since Thursday has exceeded 30 centimetres (11.8 inches).  Floodwaters spread across the city, blocking roads and stopping traffic. The global warming impact of wars in places like Gaza, Ukraine and Iran are significant.  Research shows that in just the first two months of Israel's assault on Gaza, months following the events of 7th October 2023, emissions equalled the burning of at least 150,000 tons of coal, producing more greenhouse gases than the annual carbon footprint of many climate-vulnerable nations.

The World Meteorological Organisation's update report can be found here.

God of blessings, the universe sings of your glory.  Deepen our gratitude for all you have made and awaken in us a renewed commitment to treasure the earth and cherish each other. Inspire world leaders at COP31, with openness to listen to those most affected by climate change and with courage to act urgently and wisely, so that our common home may be healed and restored and all people, and generations to come, may delight in it. In the name of Jesus we pray.  Amen.

Prayer is from CAFOD, amended.

Thirteen year old Rageena from Hyderabad sadly died in a road accident.  That was sad news for her and her family. However, through the family's grief, Rohitha's father, Narayana Rao, and other family members decided to donate her organs to help patients in need. Doctors retrieved her two kidneys, portions of her liver and two corneas. That was good news because, these organs and tissues were subsequently used to help six patients. Hyderabad City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar said the generosity shown by Rohitha's father in agreeing to organ donation had deeply moved him. He also described Rohitha as an inspiration, saying that although she had lost her life, her organs had given six people an opportunity to live.

A prayer inspired by Psalm 119 : 89-91 & 103-104

Lord, you are eternal! 

To you be praise and glory for ever.

Your word will last as long as the heavens.

You remain faithful in every generation,

and the earth you created will keep standing firm.

All things are your servants,

and the laws you made are still in effect today.

Your teachings are sweeter than honey.

They give me understanding and make me hate all lies.

Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk.

To you O Lord, be all honour and glory.

Amen.