Dr Ben Buse, a lay worship assistant in the Benefice of Cheddar, Draycott and Rodney Stoke, is serving two weeks in Wandsworth prison for contempt of court for his climate activism.
Ben, a geologist at the University of Bristol, and the Rev Tim Hewes from the Diocese of Oxford glued themselves to court furniture at the City of London Magistrates Court to protest at lack of action on the climate emergency.
Ben and Tim were at Court for a hearing after Ben was charged with breaking a section 14 order during an Extinction Rebellion protest in September 2020.
Rev Stuart Burns, Rector of the benefice, has asked for prayers for Ben and Tim.
Bishop Ruth said: “As a diocese we have recognised the crisis we face in regard to our climate and the increasing damage we are inflicting on our environment. Urgent action is required and we are encouraging people across Somerset to make changes within their personal way of life and in their church communities to respond. Churches are affiliating to Eco Church and people are growing in confidence in challenging those with the power to make decisions in this area to take climate concerns seriously, though we do not condone any breaking of the law. Ben’s peaceful protest was rooted in scientific knowledge and a passionate commitment to climate action. As Christians we believe the world has been entrusted to our care by God and we need to do all in our power to be worthy of that trust. Our prayers are with Ben and his family and friends.”