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Laudato Si': A Call to Care for Our Common Home

Emmett Mitchell

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In 2015, Pope Francis released Laudato Si', a groundbreaking encyclical that calls for a new dialogue about how we live in relation to the Earth and ourselves. The encyclical is a powerful indictment of the environmental and social injustices that are devastating our planet, and it offers a vision of hope for a more just and sustainable future.

Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home

by Pope Francis

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	173 pages
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Laudato Si' is divided into six chapters. The first chapter, "The Light of Faith," provides a theological foundation for the encyclical. Francis argues that our faith calls us to care for the Earth and all of its creatures. He writes, "The believer who contemplates the created world finds in it a reflection of God who creates out of love. All creatures are endowed with a particular purpose by God, who loves them and sustains them." (LS, 84)

The second chapter, "The Present Reality," offers a sobering assessment of the environmental crisis. Francis documents the devastating effects of climate change, pollution, and deforestation. He also highlights the growing inequality between the rich and the poor, and the plight of those who are marginalized and excluded.

In the third chapter, "The Human Root," Francis argues that the environmental crisis is ultimately a symptom of a deeper human crisis. He identifies consumerism, greed, and individualism as the root causes of the problems that we face. He writes, "The human being, who is capable of the worst, is also capable of rising above his or her own selfishness and base instincts, and is capable of the most generous and noble deeds." (LS, 205)

The fourth chapter, "An Integral Ecology," offers a vision of a more just and sustainable future. Francis calls for a new ecological paradigm that recognizes the interconnectedness of all living things. He emphasizes the need for dialogue and collaboration between all sectors of society, including governments, businesses, and civil society organizations. He also calls for a change in our lifestyles, so that we live more simply and sustainably.

The fifth chapter, "Lines of Approach and Action," provides concrete suggestions for how to implement the vision of Laudato Si'. Francis calls for investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture. He also calls for policies that protect the rights of the poor and marginalized, and that promote social justice. He writes, "The poor and the excluded are deserving of special care, for they are the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of environmental degradation, both current and foreseeable. It is through them that the damage inflicted by environmental pollution and degradation comes to light in its most concrete and dramatic forms." (LS, 188)

The sixth and final chapter, "Education and Ecology," emphasizes the importance of education in promoting environmental sustainability. Francis calls for a new educational paradigm that teaches students about the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of caring for the Earth. He writes, "Education in environmental responsibility can encourage ways of thinking and acting which will help to care for both our surroundings and our selves." (LS, 210)

Laudato Si' is a powerful and inspiring call to action. It is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the future of our planet and our children.

Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home

by Pope Francis

4.7 out of 5