Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), has urged for “more serious action” to solve the current climate catastrophe in a video message for the annual Laudato Si’ Week. The event, entitled “Hope for the Earth, Hope for Humanity,” will run from May 21 to May 28.
Bishop David emphasized the critical need for rapid and active action to tackle the climate crisis, which threatens our “beautiful but endangered earth—our common home.” He asked Catholic communities around the country to take part in this global event, which commemorates the eighth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical on environmental stewardship.
In his encyclical, the pope hoped to engage people in a debate about the relationship between humanity and nature. Bishop David stated his desire that Catholics from all continents will cooperate in their efforts to safeguard the globe, not just with fellow Catholics but with all fellow human beings.
“Our goal is to bring the entire human family together to protect the earth, our common home,” Bishop David declared. “This includes all fellow Christians from other traditions and denominations, as well as all fellow believers from other faith communities.”
Furthermore, the CBCP president advised dioceses to host community screenings of the film “The Letter,” which follows frontline leaders on a trip to Rome to debate the encyclical with Pope Francis. The film can be used to kick off group conversations about environmental activism within organizations and institutions.
The relevance of this project was emphasized by Bishop David, who stated, “This is one of the best ways to join Pope Francis and the Catholic Bishops from six continents in campaigning for more serious action in response to the climate crisis.”
“The Letter” is available on YouTube for free viewing and download under the title “The Pope, the Environmental Crisis, and Frontline Leaders | The Letter: Laudato Si’ Film.” Bishop David encouraged everyone to attend the film screenings, including parishes, schools, and Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs).
It is anticipated that by adding the CBCP’s voice to the demand for more action against the climate catastrophe, more individuals and communities would be encouraged to take meaningful efforts to safeguard our planet and secure a sustainable future for all. (Luis Angelo Sta. Maria/Volunteer Writer/San Felipe Neri Parish)
