When you hear the bells ring, here's the reason:

'Sacred People, Sacred Earth' is a global, multi-faith action to sound the alarm about pollution, degradation, and climate change.

It is sounding the alarm for the climate emergency in what is said to be the planet's 'eleventh hour' and pleading for governments and communities to take action.

It draws attention to the need for climate justice.

Because there is a need to protect communities transitioning to sustainable energy.

Because there is a need to welcome climate migrants losing their homes due to sea level rise, including those Australians in the Torres Strait who are already under threat.

And because there is also a need to protect vulnerable species and ecosystems.

The Newcastle Diocese of the Anglican Church, of which Wingham, Taree and Harrington churches are a part, held its Synod (governance) meeting on the weekend.

Environmental concerns were raised at that meeting with several motions passed addressing divestment, tree planting, and helping communities transition out of fossil fuel industries.

Anglican churches at St Luke's, Tinonee, and St Matthew's, Wingham, will be ringing the bells on Thursday at 11am along with students at Manning Valley Anglican College and other churches throughout the diocese.

"The bells are a reminder for each of us to consider our own environmental impact: our use of plastic, energy, and transport," Dr Di Rayson, a member of Anglican EcoCare said.

"By ringing the bells, churches are demonstrating that they are a symbol in the community, caring for God's creation."

Dr Rayson said it is a reminder that the church is concerned about all aspects of people's lives, including the threat of climate change.

Other religious groups are invited to join in the action, by ringing bells, sounding the shofar, calling the Azan, by chanting or meditating. People have their own religious and spiritual traditions. This is a day for uniting for the care of the planet and each other.

You can find more information and even sign the declaration at www.arrcc.org.au/global.

ARRCC is the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change and the international project is initiated by Greenfaith (greenfaith.org) whose mission is to create communities to transform ourselves, our spiritual institutions, and society to protect the planet and create a compassionate, loving, and just world.

Wingham Anglicans invites anyone to gather (socially distanced) at the church bell ringing. The church celebrates the Season of Creation in September when it focuses on environmental issues.