Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ,
Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development

The 10th anniversary of the encyclical Laudato si’ (LS) is approaching, and we can marvel at the many ways in which Christians are already engaged in ecological efforts across the world. Examples include numerous educational programs in schools and universities; a rich body of literature, ranging from practical guides to philosophical and theological reflections; reforestation projects and innovative farms on church-owned land; urban renewal initiatives led by dioceses are restructuring efforts for buildings or supply chains of major Christian organizations; countless advocacy initiatives; and prayer gatherings and liturgies dedicated to the care of creation.

We can see how multifaceted this commitment is, often carried out by a community, a network, or a group exploring a kind of “multilateralism” encouraged by the exhortation Laudate Deum (n. 38). It is about caring for our common home together. Undeniably, Laudato si’ has fostered the creation of bridges, bringing people together and encouraging bold collaborations, even within the Church itself.

We have collectively understood that environmental stewardship is not just for specialists. Everyone has a role to play. The discernment and commitment of families, individual consumers, businesses, youth movements, schools, and local governments are fundamental.

Tools such as the Eglise verte (Green Church) label in France or, on a global scale, the Laudato si’ Action Platform, can be helpful in this regard. However, it must be emphasized that those with the most economic and political power, those with access to the best information, and those with significant influence over public opinion bear an even greater responsibility. While it is important to highlight the role of local communities and individual consumers, this should not obscure the need for “major political decisions on the national and international level” (Laudate Oeum, in. 69) that are clear, fair, and effective.

Signs of hope

Spes non confundit (“Hope does not disappoint”), as Pope Francis explains, and we ourselves can be signs of hope for others. One stands out among the necessary and long-awaited signs of hope in this ongoing Jubilee: the reminder of the universal destination of the earth’s goods. We must work to ensure that these goods, created by God, benefit every member of the human family in a just, equitable, and solidaristic way-across generations, one after another.

Christians, aware of the gravity of the ecological crisis and enlightened by the eschatological vision of the church, are called to take action-here, now, and in the long term-mindful that “time is greater than space” (LS, n. 178). The church’s interest in ecology is not a passing trend. Even before Laudato si’: various groups-lay communities, parishes, religious congregations, and schools-had already begun exploring ecological concerns. Moreover, socio-ecological challenges-“the cry of the earth” and “the cry of the poor” (LS, n.49) often emerge together.

These issues will shape our societies for the foreseeable future. Our century may witness “unprecedented destruction of ecosystems, with serious consequences for all of us.” (LS, n. 24). What forms of dialogue, education, and policy will Christians facilitate and leave as their legacy?

Weeping with the marginalized

But we must also resist “that unfettered greed and sense of isolation which make us seek personal gain” (LS, n. 237). The Christian vision of creation is essential in this regard. Creation is a gift from a Father who loves us and accompanies us with His providence.

What generosity and respect can we introduce into our choices? God speaks to us through Scripture, through the signs of the times, and through nature. Nature tells us about regeneration, diversity, adaptation, balance, and beauty. By contemplating it, becoming familiar with it, and thinking and conversing with the Creator who brought it into being, we can better shape our ways of being generative, inclusive, and sustainable.

In the context of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, this 10th anniversary is a time to celebrate what has been accomplished and to give thanks to God. It is an opportunity to promote the encyclical among Catholics and people of all faiths who may not yet be familiar with it. It is a time to weep-and to struggle alongside those who suffer, who are marginalized or impoverished, due to the destruction inflicted on the earth and the unjust economic mechanisms at play.

“We come together to take charge of this home which has been entrusted to us, knowing that all the good which exists here will be taken up into the heavenly feast. In union with all creatures, we journey through this land seeking God … Let us sing as we go. May our struggles and our concern for this planet never take away the joy of our hope.” (LS, n. 244).