Stawell residents of all faiths have gathered on the Stawell Uniting Church's steps in a peaceful demonstration to urge governments at federal, state and local levels to take "bold action" on climate change.

Stawell Uniting Church member Julie Andrew said she wanted the action to show the community that people of faith recognise the need for change.

"I think it is really important, and there are other members of our congregation who think it is very important too," she said.

"It is part of our role as Christians to care for creation and to be good stewards of the planet that our God has created for us.

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"I would like people to know that Christians don't just think about life after death and what it is going to like then.

"They are also very concerned about making God's kingdom here on Earth a better place, and that means looking after what we have.

"We are not going to be quiet about what is going on and we call on our government's, at all levels, to really step up and take bold action on climate change."

While people were gathered at the Stawell Uniting Church, bells rang out at St. Patrick's Catholic Church and the Anglican Holy Trinity Church in a show of solidarity with the movement.

Ms Andrew said the Stawell Uniting Church took significant steps to look after their environmental footprint and encouraged others to reduce their impact.

"A number of years ago our church put on solar panels so we could do our bit for offsetting emissions," she said.

"In our normal functioning of our kitchen, we use glass, recycling, and we also have been using compostable cups instead of plastic for our communion.

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"So we are trying to be mindful of those things as a church community, but also as individuals.

"There are lots of way people can get involved and look after their environment and help to reduce emissions."

More than 20 people gathered for the service which involved members singing and praying to help raise awareness of the issue.

Their message to leaders was clear: the decisions they make now must not perpetuate the reliance on fossil fuels and the destruction of the very forests, waters, oceans and soils that make life possible.

The international movement was started by Green Faith, who called for a multi-faith stance on climate action.

The Australia Religious Response to Climate Change organised more than 100 gatherings in Australia and has created a petition for people to sign on their website.

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