Christian climate activists are increasingly adopting panentheistic beliefs, seeing God as present within the earth and universe, according to a new study.
The report, Religion, Theology and Climate Change, was the result of a three-year research project led by Rev. Professor Peter Scott of the Lincoln Theological Institute at the University of Manchester.
Funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, the study worked with six Christian organizations, including CAFOD, Christian Climate Action, and Operation Noah.
Researchers found that many respondents strongly agreed with the idea that “God is embodied in the earth and universe,” with the statement scoring 8.2 out of 10 in the survey.
This theological view, known as panentheism, was often expressed in deeply personal terms, with one participant noting: “If I put my hand on a tree, it’s alive with the life of God.”
The report highlighted how such beliefs shaped a more theocentric and incarnational approach to climate activism, linking creation care with salvation.
Respondents frequently connected Jesus’ ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection to ecological themes; some even described climate injustice as a modern form of crucifixion.
The study also found that Christian climate advocates took on prophetic and stewardship roles, with many supporting forms of nonviolent direct action.
Among its 12 recommendations, the report urged churches to adopt clearer language to better engage Christians in environmental action.