Venus Williams, David Haye, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, and Kendrick Farris. You may recognise the aforementioned as inspiring, world-renowned athletes, but what you may be surprised to discover is that they all follow a plant-based diet!
Professor Ryan McLaughlin, lecturer of theology at Siena College, New York, explains how the biblical concept of “dominion” necessitates eating a meat-free diet.
Dr Philip J. Sampson FOCAE, writer and lecturer on animals and animal ethics, explores the rich history of Christian concern for animals. He also uncovers many remarkable, pro-animal biblical insights including how Jesus demonstrated love and compassion for all creatures.
It was very encouraging to welcome so many people from others faiths and none to the Creature Conference.
In today’s society, a growing number of people from outside the church are deeply concerned with animals. For these thousands of individuals, a church unconcerned about animals is a church which fails to apply the love it proclaims.
The Creature Conference was a wonderful opportunity to show that times are changing and ever more Christians are realising the importance of animal concerns. For the conference attendees who would not call themselves followers of Christ, this event has proven to be an important milestone in re-shaping their perception of Christianity.
Kerry-Jayne, an omnist (respecter of all faiths) from West London, was deeply impressed with seeing Christians speaking up for animals:
I was really impressed with Creature Conference! I have previously been disappointed with how many religions exclude nature and animals from being a prime moral concern but this conference has proven to be a major step forward in challenging the status quo. Christ himself turned over the tables of the money lenders in an act of moral defiance. The Christians I met at this conference are similarly shaking things up within the church and wider society regarding animals. They are social reformers … pioneers … visionaries … Christianity at its best!”
For John, an agnostic from Greater London, the conference left a positive and lasting impression :
I have never been one to call myself a Christian; however I wholeheartedly support Sarx for creating a truly inspirational and motivating conference. Taking the lessons of Christianity of compassion, care, love and respect they have forged a crucible where intellect and empathy are shared and displayed without hesitation for the protection and welfare of animals.”
Dr Joyce D’Silva, public speaker, author and former chief executive of Compassion in World Farming was impressed with the conference and optimistic about the Christian voice in bringing about positive change for animals:
Sarx is doing a great job in challenging that out-of-date instrumental view of animals and showing that true Christianity necessitates deep concern and compassion for animals as well as humans. If every Christian embraced the Sarx ideals, then a great swell of public opinion could be generated which could challenge the status quo, help achieve change and lay the basis for a more compassionate world.”
Christians don’t need to gauge a difficult balance between spending their time either on mission or animal concerns. Rather demonstrating care and concern for animals and so working to fulfil God’s will on earth, as it is heaven, it one of most positive and powerful ways of testifying to those outside the church. In witnessing to a different way of living, one that is generous, abundant and focused on the wellbeing of all God’s creatures, we example a life that will doubtless be attractive and compelling to Christians and non-Christians alike.
One of the highlights of the Creature Conference was the interactive panel discussion featuring all the speakers.
This discussion, chaired by Sarx Patron, The Revd Steve Chalke MBE, drew together the key themes addressed throughout the day and provided the opportunity for attendees to ask questions from the floor.
Press play on the toolbar below to listen to the full length debate and hear the speakers challenged on pressing, important topics including the life of Christ, animal suffering, veganism and the work of our Christian forebears in bringing about positive changes for animals.
Press play on the toolbar to listen to the full discussion:
This dynamic conversation demonstrated Christian unity in treating animal concerns as prime faith concerns and gave great promise for the future of Christian engagement with animal issues. Delegates commented:
Steve Chalke’s chairing was excellent. Pertinent questions were asked and a lot of ground covered, including some fresh material, in a relatively short period of time.”
“It was good to hear the agreement and discussions of those Christians from different traditions and approaches coming together and gave great hope for the future.”
“It was the best panel discussion I have ever witnessed in a Christian setting. Not only were the panel members informed, but panelists and audience members alike benefitted from having a skilled moderator overseeing the event.”
Andrew Knight is a Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics at the University of Winchester, and Director of Research and Education for SAFE in New Zealand. He investigates the case of Jack the Ripper and posits whether he might have been a 19th century slaughterhouse worker. Andrew goes on to highlight the links between violence inflicted on animals, and that which is perpetrated on humans.
Grace Yia-Hei Kao, Associate Professor of Ethics at Claremont School of Theology, discusses faith, ecofeminism and how both men and women can example Christian ideals of love, peace and justice in favour of animals.
Celebrated artist Katherine Howard, whose work has been showcased internationally with magazines including Vogue, The World of Interiors and House and Garden, explains how art has led her to an ever increasing respect and wonder for God’s animals.
Proverbs 12:10 is sometimes, rather blandly, translated ‘The righteous person cares for their animals’. But the literal translation is “The righteous person knows the soul of their animals’!
Dr Ruth Valerio outlines a Biblical understanding of animals and how to take practical steps in support of God’s creatures.
Gene Baur, Farm Sanctuary President, author and activist, is interviewed on his successful book Living the Farm Sanctuary Life. In this definitive vegan and animal-friendly lifestyle guide, Gene explores the deeply transformative experience of learning to live compassionately and without harm to animals.