One of the principles of Catholic Social Teachings is Care for Creation, which is a very Franciscan concern.
Sr. Joan Chittister says: "We do not exist outside of nature or above nature or independent of nature — we are simply its most vulnerable part." We observe Earth Day on April 22nd - but every day should be Earth Day for us. Here is an Earth Day Prayer.
Let us pray for trees, plants, crops and forests.
Let us pray for water, oceans, rivers, streams and ponds.
Let us pray for air, wind, climate and weather.
Let us pray for sun, clean energy and prevention of global warning.
Let us pray for animals, especially endangered species.
Let us pray for humankind.
Let us pray for recycling and moderate personal consumption.
Let us pray for proper use of chemicals and disposal of toxic waste.
Let us pray for Earth and unity.
"God has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6: 8
Creator God, we thank you for all of creation. We ask your forgiveness where we have failed to be just stewards. And we now ask for your guidance in restoring the face of the earth. May we learn to live in harmony, safety and just sharing of resources among all so that we achieve the kingdom of God. Amen.
Catholic Principals Council of Ontario:
