WelCom May 2022
Lisa Beech
On 24 May we celebrate the 7th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’ on caring for our common home. The Laudato si’ action plan promoted by the Dicastery for Integral Human Development encourages commitment and action in seven areas. One of these areas is Ecological Spirituality – described as springing from a profound ecological conversion that helps us to discover God in all things.
Pope Francis explains this in Laudato si’, saying, ‘More than in ideas or concepts as such, I am interested in how such a spirituality can motivate us to a more passionate concern for the protection of our world. A commitment this lofty cannot be sustained by doctrine alone, without a spirituality capable of inspiring us.’
The Integral Ecology Committee of the Archdiocesan Ecology, Justice and Peace Commission is hosting an online seminar on Tuesday 24 May to celebrate the 7th anniversary of Laudato si’, with a focus a Marian integral ecology – Hauropi Mariana, presented by Fr Peter Healy sm.
Fr Peter describes the development of a Marist ecological spirituality as linking Mariology, sustainable gardening practices and care of our common home in a search for integrity.
‘Mary’s concern for the whole of life is something we take great heart in. She will lead and guide us into a fresh engagement with our homes, our backyards and our workplaces. In her maternal care Mary holds a promise for the revitalising of our relationships with everything that is harmed and broken.’
Fr Peter has led reflections on Marian integral ecology for the Integral Ecology Committee, which members have found refreshing and inspiring. The committee wishes to offer the opportunity to the wider community to learn more from Fr Peter about Marian integral ecology and invites you to join the online seminar.
As a tribute to Mary month of May and Laudato si’, Fr Peter Healy’s writings about a Marian integral ecology – Hauropi Mariana, here.