FRUITS OF HOPE
Throughout the Season of Creation (1 September – 4 October) we are invited to celebrate the wonder of the created world: its amazing diversity, beauty and resilience. This year’s theme Hope and Act with Creation calls humanity to collaborate for a future characterised by active hope and engagement.
St Francis recognised the importance of respecting all forms of life and was attentive to the needs of the poor. By immersing himself in nature, he understood its essence and impact. His gentle approach to the environment serves as a powerful example of an individual’s ability to effect change, regardless of challenges.
A St Francis mindset is key to addressing our ecological crisis effectively. Pope Francis emphasises the need for a cooperative and integrated approach. Recognising our interconnectedness with all of creation, he stresses the importance of collective action and unity in tackling environmental issues.
As part of a global community striving for sustainable living, we can make a difference by embracing eco-friendly practices and recognising our role in preserving the Earth. Thomas Berry reminds us in his book Sacred Universe:
Once we accept that we exist as an integral member of this larger community of existence, we can begin to act in a more appropriate human way. We might even enter once again into that great celebration the universe itself.
Throughout Laudato Si’ (2015) Pope Francis reiterates the community of creation as each creature possesses its own particular goodness and perfection… (#69) and each creature singing the hymn of its existence is to live joyfully in God’s love and hope (#221). This contemplation of creation allows us to discover in each creature a teaching which God wishes to hand on to us, that we are all connected, and we need to be in creation to hear the message.
Community plays a vital role in transitioning from individualism to solidarity and from isolation to togetherness. By expanding our sense of connection within human communities to encompass all living beings, we can have a profound impact on fostering a harmonious relationship with creation. After all, it is only by working together we can bring about lasting change, that is why ecological conversion must also be a community call to live more simply, more sustainably, and more in tune with the rhythms of creation. Pope Francis reminds us,
Many things have to change course, but it is we human beings above all who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone (#202).
The current ecological crisis presents a universal challenge that demands immediate action. It is crucial for us to change our habits and embrace a vision of hope and courage as we strive to create a better future for all living beings.
God has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Creator require of you?
To act justly, sustainably, and ecologically on Earth;
to show compassion to the multi-species inhabiting the Earth,
and to walk humbly with your God present in all life and on Earth
Rev. Dr. Robert Shore-Goss
Reflection:
How do you promote appreciation of nature’s beauty and encourage collective action for a hopeful future?
Reference:
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html
