Laudato Si' - Action Planning

“What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up?” This question lies at the heart of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’. (160). During Pope Francis’ whirlwind visit to the United States, concern for our earth, for the poor and for the future of humanity were constant themes in his addresses.

How much do we care? How much do YOU care?

It’s a temptation to tuck this into the back of our minds while more immediate concerns take up our time and attention. The challenges of caring for our common home seem too big, the problems too complex. But according to a summary of the document provided by the Vatican Information Service, “A ray of hope flows through the entire Encyclical, which gives a clear message of hope. ‘Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home. Men and women are still capable of intervening positively. All is not lost. Human beings, while capable of the worst, are also capable of rising above themselves, choosing again what is good, and making a new start.’”

We have to make the effort. Reading and studying the encyclical would be a good way to begin. No time to read the 191 page document? No excuse. Here are three possibilities.

The Vatican information service has offered a 6 page summary of Laudato Si. Enter “Vatican overview Laudato Si” in a search engine or use this address: http://www.news.va/en/news/overview-of-the-encyclical-laudato-si

Plan to use the encyclical as a resource for initial and ongoing formation in your fraternity. Check out the JPIC CD with resources and ideas for using Laudato Si. A CD was made for each fraternity in the region. Most were picked up at the fall gathering in Rochester. The rest will be mailed or delivered.

Or start a study group of your own. A Catholic publishing company has provided a study guide and summary. It’s less than $3 and easy to read and use. Go to www.pastoralplanning.com and look for “On Care for Our Common Home.”

Each one of us can do something: instill a sense of wonder at the beauty of creation in children, change some habits to become more earth friendly, pay attention to the issues and contact our legislators, pray, donate to organizations that care for the poor and the earth. We need to care.