Luke Jerram’s Gaia returns to Southwark Cathedral this October as part of a programme designed to inspire visitors of all ages into positive action to protect our planet. The Cathedral’s climate justice season is presented in partnership with international development agency Christian Aid.

Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia provides visitors with the chance to see our planet floating in three dimensions in the Cathedral’s Nave. The installation gives the unique opportunity to experience the ‘Overview Effect’ usually experienced by astronauts who report a feeling of awe for the planet and a renewed sense of responsibility for the environment.

Throughout the installation’s run, guest speakers include climate justice activist Mikaela Loach on what real climate justice looks like, and Royal Society Science Book Prize winning author Gaia Vince speaking about how we can plan and manage this unavoidable climate migration while we restore the planet to a fully habitable state. Other events include a workshop led by Christian Aid on how to speak to your MP about the issues that matter most, an evening of Jazz music under Gaia with Ronnie Scott’s regulars The Leo Richardson Quartet and a family event with astronomer Tom Kerss F.R.A.S.

The Dean of Southwark, the Very Reverend Dr Mark Oakley, said “We all make a difference by what we do - and we have to decide what kind of difference we want to make. Bringing Gaia into the space of the Cathedral, challenges us, as we look at this world's beauty, as to what we must do to protect it. We need to act so that humanity, and all the life-forms we share the globe with, can breathe and flourish together. The programme of events surrounding the installation will encourage us to be people committed to this justice for the planet and its population. The 'change' in 'Climate change' must now refer to us - the change needed in our behaviours, will-power, and ethical integrity”.

Pete Moorey, Christian Aid’s Head of Community & Church Fundraising & Engagement, will be preaching at the cathedral on October 20. He said: “Christian Aid is very pleased to be working with the cathedral on its climate justice season.

“Gaia reminds us of the wonder and beauty of God's creation, and our responsibility to raise our voices for climate justice as we seek to protect it now and for generations to come. Christian Aid works through local partners in some of the most vulnerable communities in the world, communities which have done little to contribute to the climate crisis but are paying the harshest price. We hope visitors to the cathedral will be inspired to take action as we seek to stand with our sisters and brothers on the frontline of the climate crisis."

Tickets for Gaia and associated events are available from the Cathedral’s Eventbrite page. 

The Gaia programme at Southwark Cathedral is raising funds to support the Cathedral's mission and ministry, to safeguard its heritage and to maintain and develop its outreach and education offering.