Last week, Our Holy Father released his Encyclical (papal letter to the Bishops) entitled Laudato Si’, translated “Be Praised” or “Praise be with you”. The document has been discussed widely by the press and individuals since its release, calling it “environmentalist” or other words, both positive and negative. I always prefer to go the source when the news or other individuals start to “spin” information, and I have placed the Encyclical on our website for those of you who would like to read it for yourself (https://legacysite.sjecc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si_en.pdf). I cannot say I have gotten through the entire letter yet, but all that I have read has clearly and directly illustrated the primary focus of Catholics and all of humanity should be to work together for the common good, for our society, and for the planet in which we live on, not own.
As a Catholic, it is my responsibility to listen and follow the teachings of Pope Francis. This letter is the best possible example of how to lead with morality and social justice, calling on all of us to a life of stewardship. We are caretakers of each other and the natural resources around us. We cannot be myopic and self-centered, believing that our actions only impact us. We also cannot believe we can solve the physical environmental issues, but not address the social causes that underlie the failings in how we love, trust, and heal one another. Respecting life includes the conversation about all of life, in all its forms. Just a few components of his letter illustrate our place in God’s Kingdom here on Earth, with the specific sections in parentheses:
The climate is a common good, belonging to all and meant for all. At the global level, it is a complex system linked to many of the essential conditions for human life. (23)
A sense of deep communion with the rest of nature cannot be real if our hearts lack tenderness, compassion and concern for our fellow human beings. It is clearly inconsistent to combat trafficking in endangered species while remaining completely indifferent to human trafficking, unconcerned about the poor, or undertaking to destroy another human being deemed unwanted. This compromises the very meaning of our struggle for the sake of the environment. It is no coincidence that, in the canticle in which Saint Francis praises God for his creatures, he goes on to say: “Praised be you my Lord, through those who give pardon for your love”. Everything is connected. Concern for the environment thus needs to be joined to a sincere love for our fellow human beings and an unwavering commitment to resolving the problems of society. (91)
There are certain environmental issues where it is not easy to achieve a broad consensus. Here I would state once more that the Church does not presume to settle scientific questions or to replace politics. But I am concerned to en- courage an honest and open debate so that par- ticular interests or ideologies will not prejudice the common good. (188)
Saint John has already started several energy saving programs, like a smart meter to be installed at the end of the summer and replacing all our light bulbs with LED’s, but there is much more we can do. I highly recommend reading Laudato Si’ and discern for yourself your stewardship and let me know if you have any suggestions for Saint John.