Back in 2015, Jesuit priest and editor at large of the Jesuit magazine America, James Martin, shared his top ten takeaways from Laudato Si. It’s still a great and insightful list:
- The spiritual perspective is now part of the discussion on the environment.
- The poor are disproportionately affected by climate change.
- Less is more.
- Catholic social teaching now includes teaching on the environment.
- Discussions about ecology can be grounded in the Bible and church tradition.
- Everything is connected — including the economy.
- Scientific research on the environment is to be praised and used.
- Widespread indifference and selfishness worsen environmental problems.
- Global dialogue and solidarity are needed.
- A change of heart is required.
If you have time, I suggest you read the complete text of Father Martin’s article, where he expounds on each item from his top ten list.
And if you haven’t read it, I would like to encourage you to read Pope Francis’ seminal encyclical for yourself. You can purchase a bound copy from many sources or view the Vatican-posted version for free online.
Working together, we can help take care of our common home.
Paul Litwin
Saint Francis of Assisi at St John the Evangelist 