Environmental campaign group Christian Climate Action has amped up its protests to the Church of England, by interrupting cathedral tours across the country.

The group is calling on the Church of England to “take a stand against the forces causing climate and ecological collapse”.

Their latest campaign asks the Church to “Stop Crucifying Creation,” an imperative emblazoned on a banner unfurled at Westminster Abbey.

Protestors bowed their heads and knelt in front of the cathedral’s altar. The group alleges that their protest was then “rapidly hidden behind a screen”.

A similar banner was unfurled at Bath Abbey tower, after protestors climbed onto the roof and refused to come down, prompting the police and fire service to be called. The four activists were arrested.

At York Minster, protestor and CofE member, David, 64, said he felt unable to “stand by”.

“I am acting on behalf of my children and grandchildren,” he said.  

“I am here to call on the Church to get back to its roots. Jesus continually spoke out against the injustices of the rulers and leaders of his time… Our government and the fossil fuel industry are selfishly pursuing short term profits, putting the lives of millions at risk and crucifying God’s creation.

“The Church must find the courage to step outside of its ancient buildings, and act in obedience to God’s calling.”

Last year, the then Archbishop of Canterbury said: “We’ve set the target of net zero carbon emissions by 2030, with land use playing a central role. Eighty-two thousand acres of the church’s land are used as farmland to produce food, amongst other things.”