Send message to Authors

Paper short abstract

Discussing the notion of finitude and its relation to different modes of hope and despair, the paper explores how spirituality and religion can become tools for a largely secular, post-apocalyptic climate movement that is struggling to reorient itself from utopian toward negative future imaginaries.

Paper long abstract

By discussing the notion of finitude and its relation to different modes of hope and despair, the paper explores how spirituality and religion can become tools for a largely secular, post-apocalyptic climate movement that is struggling to reorient itself from utopian toward negative future imaginaries. As right-wing forces gain strength, public neglect of the climate crisis increases, and severe repression against climate activists has taken place in recent years, feelings of defeat and despair are growing. In this shifting political atmosphere, post-apocalyptic strands of the climate movement in Germany are gaining popularity. This reorientation is characterized by a heightened attention towards affects and emotions. Against the backdrop of an already unfolding polycrisis, Christian and other religious climate activists seek answers and resources in their traditions. Through scriptures, practices, and institutional infrastructures, they are aiming to participate in ongoing discussions about disastrous futures and the possibilities to overcome them. The paper takes the example of pastoral care to explore how finitude, as part of an emotional and spiritual process, can become a productive resource. Understood as a natural aspect of human life and the rhythms of the world, finitude may enable individuals to move from despair toward a renewed, life-affirming perspective. I conclude by arguing that, through their professional practices and knowledge, priests can be understood as experts in matters of finitude that are able to contribute both intellectually and practically to a new collapse-oriented movement by addressing the growing need for emotional guidance.