We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. Care for the earth is not just an Earth Day slogan, it is a requirement of our faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God’s creation. This environmental challenge has fundamental moral and ethical dimensions that cannot be ignored.
Laudato Si’ is the second encyclical of Pope Francis, published in 2015. It focuses on environmental issues, urging everyone—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—to take responsibility for the care of our planet, which Pope Francis refers to as "our common home." Key Themes of Laudato Si’
Integral Ecology
Laudato Si’ emphasizes that everything in the world is interconnected. Human life, environmental health, and social justice are inseparably linked. The encyclical calls for an "integral ecology" that respects both human dignity and the natural world.
The Cry of the Earth and the Cry of the Poor
Pope Francis highlights that the poor are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation. The encyclical stresses that addressing environmental problems must go hand in hand with addressing poverty and inequality.
Environmental Degradation
The encyclical points to pollution, deforestation, climate change, loss of biodiversity, and the excessive exploitation of natural resources as urgent global crises. Pope Francis calls for sustainable practices to protect the environment.
The Role of Humanity
Humanity’s relationship with nature is explored in depth, with an emphasis on the need for stewardship rather than domination. The document encourages individuals to shift from consumerism to sustainable living, calling for a cultural and spiritual conversion.
Climate Change
Laudato Si’ places significant importance on the reality of climate change, identifying it as one of the greatest challenges of our time. Pope Francis urges political leaders, corporations, and individuals to take urgent action to mitigate its effects.
Intergenerational Responsibility
A strong theme in the encyclical is responsibility to future generations. Pope Francis calls for urgent action to ensure that future generations inherit a healthy and sustainable planet.
Dialogue and Global Solidarity
The encyclical encourages open dialogue among all sectors of society—religious, scientific, political, and economic—to find solutions to environmental crises. This includes collaboration across national borders for the common good.