EDITORIAL

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THIS month we reflect back on the hopes and dreams drawn from the Year of Young People – a Scotland-wide celebration of youngsters in our communities.

In this season of autumn and harvest, we have also learned of the impact of the extremes of weather keenly felt by our farmers.

In the summer there were warnings of fruit and vegetable shortages as the prolonged steamy days of sunshine (and occasional night-time rain) led to crops ripening earlier than usual, with also a threat to some migrating birds which, on arrival in Scotland this year, may have found food in short supply. There was also a plea to conserve water stocks in July, which were at their lowest levels for many years.

Earlier in the year the so-called ‘Beast from the East’ – a freezing spell of snowstorms at the beginning of March – meant many were trapped in their homes amid blizzard conditions. Public transport was suspended across the affected area for several days and food supplies – so reliant on transport by road – were impacted for a period of time.

Scientists have warned that the warm weather in particular, may continue to be a phenomenon in years to come.

It is even worse for African families who can no longer rely on staple crops that have sustained for generations. Projects supported in particular by charities including Christian Aid and Tearfund, have sought to encourage the growth of new hardier crops to generate income and prevent starvation.

Our natural world is changing at a faster pace than before. It is evident that the resources of our planet, part of God’s bounty, are not unlimited and as we reflect on the changing seasons, it may be that small changes should be considered amid the ongoing climate change debate. The evidence for those who say they do not believe the words of scientists highlighting climate change has been there with two extreme weather events in Scotland alone this year.

As we consider the lessons of this year’s harvest surely the possibility of alternative energy forms – solar, wind and even water or tide should be part of the future agenda for every congregation.

As we consider the lessons of this year’s harvest surely consideration of alternative energy forms – solar, wind and even water or tide should be part of the future agenda for every congregation.

For, as we head for the final months of the Year of Young People, the legacy for the new and next generation must be at the forefront of our minds.

By making small simple changes today – only using the water, heat and energy that we need and endeavouring to buy what we can that has been produced locally – we can preserve the gifts of today for the children of tomorrow.

Lynne McNeil

Editor