Sunrise over Launceston Image by Canon John Deeny
“The work of the Church seeks not only to remind everyone of the duty to care for nature, but at the same time she must above all protect mankind from self-destruction.” Laudato Si’ 79
2025 is a significant year for creation, with the tenth anniversary of Laudato Si’ in May and a global jubilee. Care for Creation is one of the six social action themes chosen for prayer and reflection during this Jubilee Year. This time is particularly poignant given the recent death of Pope Francis. Laudato Si’ week is an opportunity to reflect on his life and legacy in caring for creation. It is a time to celebrate the gift of Pope Francis on Earth, and to rejoice in the hope of life everlasting.
We know we face urgent challenges. “The impact of climate change will increasingly prejudice the lives and families of many persons. We will feel its effects in the areas of healthcare, sources of employment, access to resources, housing, forced migrations, etc” Laudate Deum #2. We are called for to rediscover our relationship with creation, God, and one another. Christian hope – the theme of this Jubilee Year – calls us to engage actively in the safeguarding of creation and healing the wounds of our world. Let’s use the opportunity of Laudato Si Week to pray and reflect on the ecological challenges we are facing—not as reasons to despair but as an invitation to action and hope rooted in Christ.
Our latest Diocesan Annual Environment Report highlights some actions we are taking as a diocese to care for creation. It shows how we can take simple steps to promote a loving care for “our common home” and meet the ecological challenges which we all face.
Let us walk the Pilgrimage of Hope together, responding with faith and courage. We trust that Christ walks with us, renewing the face of the earth through our collective efforts
You can find resources for Laudato Si week on our diocesan website.
The Ecological Conversion Group with the help of Sr Margaret Atkins, have produced a resource for the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si’.