As missionary disciples, we are invited to be part of the redeeming mission of Christ, and to approach our task with joy and gratitude remembering, “Rather than a problem to be solved, the world is a joyful mystery to be contemplated with gladness and praise.” (Laudato Si’ #12). Nevertheless, as individuals and as a community of faith, we all know that there are serious environmental challenges. As Pope Francis reminds us, we are not ‘hearing the Cry of the Poor and the Earth’, and we “have grown indifferent to all kinds of wastefulness” (Fratelli Tutti #18).
As a community, “we have an obligation to ensure that every person lives with dignity and has sufficient opportunities for his or her integral development” (Fratelli tutti #118). Each of us is called to take concrete steps – from reducing consumption to working for change – to better care for the Creation which God has entrusted to us. As individuals we can all play our part and, collectively, we can do a great deal.
The Diocese of Plymouth is committed to encouraging and enabling individuals of all ages to take their own personal action, in solidarity with the poorest and most disadvantaged people, who experience disproportionately, the negative impact of climate change and the exploitation of the earth’s resources. You can find out about the progress we are making to achieving our own environmental commitments in our Annual Review.
We welcome comments and feedback. If you are passionate about Care for Creation and would like to support our work, please get in touch with caritas@prcdtr.org.uk