Fourth Anniversary of Encyclical letter Laudato Si'

We will live simply, in a way that takes into account the fragility of  Mother Earth by using her resources more sparingly and,where possible, living with less. (Chapter Statement 2016)

On 18 June 2015, Pope Francis released his encyclical letter Laudato Si' (Praised Be), a passionate call to every person living on the planet  'to regain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world, and that being good and decent are worth it' (para. 229). Since that letter was released there have been numerous media reports of extreme weather events including drought, floods and tornadoes and their impact on millions of people. Eight months ago we learned from leading climate scientists that there is only a dozen years for global warming to be kept to a maximum of 1.5C.

This anniversary offers each one of us the opportunity to reflect on how we have responded to the Pope's call in Laudato Si' and to recommit to action.

A starting point could be to visit the website of the Global Catholic Climate Movement which works within the Catholic Church to better care for our common home and to which Sisters of Mercy belong. It provides resources for learning about Laudato Si' and suggestions for protecting all creation.