Chapter 9

The Goodness of Gods Creation

The Goodness of Gods Creation

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The Goodness of Gods Creation

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE BENEDICT XVI FOR THE CELEBRATION OF THE WORLD DAY OF PEACE1 JANUARY 2010

Can we remain indifferent before the problems associated with such realities as climate change, desertification, the deterioration and loss of productivity in vast agricultural areas, the pollution of rivers and aquifers, the loss of biodiversity, the increase of natural catastrophes and the deforestation of equatorial and tropical regions? Can we disregard the growing phenomenon of environmental refugees, people who are forced by the degradation of their natural habitat to forsake it and often their possessions as well in order to face the dangers and uncertainties of forced displacement? Can we remain impassive in the face of actual and potential conflicts involving access to natural resources? All these are issues with a profound impact on the exercise of human rights, such as the right to life, food, health and development. The Church has a responsibility towards creation, and she considers it her duty to exercise that responsibility in public life, in order to protect earth, water and air as gifts of God the Creator meant for everyone, and above all to save mankind from the danger of self-destruction. (nos. 4, 10)

The Goodness of Gods Creation

The St. Francis PledgeI Pledge to:PRAYand reflect on the duty to care for Gods Creation and protect the poor and vulnerable.LEARNabout and educate others on the causes and moral dimensions of climate change.ASSESShow we-as individuals and in our families, parishes and other affiliations contribute to climate change by our own energy use, consumption, waste, etc. ACTto change our choices and behaviors to reduce the ways we contribute to climate change. ADVOCATEfor Catholic principles and priorities in climate change discussions and decisions, especially as they impact those who are poor and vulnerable.

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

At the root of the ecological crisis, fundamentally a moral problem, is a profound disrespect for life A society that will easily dispose of Gods good earth will also find disposing of people easy as well. This is why the Church shows so much concern about the connection between respect for the dignity of people (especially the poor) and respect for the environment. (p. 293)The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Scope of Modern Environmental Issues

The Environment and Other Social Concerns

The Environment and Other Social Concerns

The Environment and Other Social Concerns

To Be a Christian Steward: U.S. Bishops' Pastoral Letter on Stewardship

The Bible contains a profound message about the stewardship of material creation: God created the world, but entrusts it to human beings. Caring for and cultivating the world involves the following: Joyful appreciation for the God-given beauty and wonder of natureProtection and preservation of the environment, which would be the stewardship of ecological concernRespect for human lifeshielding life from threat and assault, doing everything that can be done to enhance this gift and make life flourishDevelopment of this world through noble human effortphysical labor, the trades and professions, the arts and sciences. We call such effort "work." Work is a fulfilling human vocation

Ten Commandments for the Environment

Ten Commandments for the Environment

Ten Commandments for the Environment

Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you? And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.' (Mt 25:37-40)The Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognize Christ in the poorest, his brethren. (CCC, no. 1397)A way has to be found to enable everyone to benefit from the fruits of the earth, and not simply to close the gap between the affluent and those who must be satisfied with the crumbs falling from the table, but above all to satisfy the demands of justice, fairness and respect for every human being. (Pope Francis, Address to the Food and Agricultural Organization, 6/20/13)

Ten Commandments for the Environment

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