PROTECTING GOD’S CREATION

PROTECTING GOD’S CREATION My Dear Countrymen, I know that there are many environmentalists who are Catholics. While that may be true, I think that it would be safe to say that there are many Catholics who are supporting environmental causes because of their love for the earth, but not necessarily because of their love for God. Because of that, I have often wondered if there is a connection between loving the earth, and loving God. Curious about that, I asked ChatGPT to help me find some answers, and here is what I got: A Catholic Perspective on the Environment The responsibility to protect and nurture God's creation stems from the teachings of the Bible and the rich tradition of Catholic social teaching, including Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si’. As stewards of the Earth, we are called to care for the environment, recognizing it as a precious gift from God that sustains life and reflects His glory. Biblical Foundations The Bible provides a clear foundation for environmental stewardship. In the Book of Genesis, God commands humanity to "fill the earth and subdue it" and to "have dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air" (Genesis 1:28). This dominion is not a license for exploitation but a mandate for responsible care and management. In Genesis 2:15, God places Adam in the Garden of Eden "to till it and keep it," highlighting humanity’s role as caretakers of creation. Scripture consistently underscores the interconnectedness of all creation. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it," reminding us that the Earth belongs to God, not us. The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, such as the Book of Job, also celebrates the majesty and complexity of creation, inspiring awe and respect for the natural world. Insights from Laudato Si’ Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ calls for a renewed commitment to caring for our common home. Rooted in Catholic teaching, the encyclical emphasizes the moral dimensions of the environmental crisis. Pope Francis warns of the "rapidification" of unsustainable human activities, which harm both the environment and the poor, who are most vulnerable to ecological degradation. In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis presents the concept of "integral ecology," which sees the environmental crisis as inseparable from social justice issues. He states, “Everything is connected,” stressing that the destruction of the environment ultimately harms human dignity. The encyclical urges all people, especially Catholics, to embrace lifestyles that reflect simplicity and solidarity with the poor, addressing both ecological and human needs. Catholic Teaching on Environmental Stewardship Catholic social teaching frames environmental care as a moral obligation, rooted in respect for life and the common good. The principle of the common good calls us to ensure that natural resources are preserved not only for present generations but for future ones. The preferential option for the poor, another key Catholic principle, challenges us to address environmental injustices that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The Church teaches that environmental care is a form of respect for the Creator. As stewards of creation, we honor God by preserving the beauty and integrity of the natural world. Pope Benedict XVI, often referred to as the "Green Pope," emphasized that environmental stewardship is an essential part of living out our faith. A Call to Action Protecting God’s creation demands both personal and collective action. As individuals, we can adopt sustainable practices, reduce waste, and advocate for policies that promote environmental sustainability. As communities of faith, we are called to pray for ecological conversion and work together to safeguard the Earth. In conclusion, protecting the environment is not merely an ecological imperative but a spiritual one. It is a profound act of love for God, neighbor, and future generations. Inspired by Scripture, Laudato Si’, and Catholic teaching, we are called to respond with urgency and hope, caring for our common home as faithful stewards of God’s creation. Respectfully yours, Ramon Ike V. Seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 01-12-2025