22 economy to blame each other when it comes to poverty and environmental degradation (198). Developments and efforts undertaken for the common good can be forgotten, and the last thing either party is concerned about is caring for the environment and protecting those who are most vulnerable (198). V Religions in Dialogue with Science Empirical science cannot provide a complete explanation of life, the interplay of all creatures and the whole of reality Keeping our sights set on living together harmoniously will prevent humanity from losing its compass, and this is what should underpin any technical solution which science claims to offer (200). Our faith and our actions must not contradict each other. Believers need to be encouraged to be ever open to God’s grace and to draw constantly from their deepest convictions about love, justice and peace (200). In the past we have not always cared for creation due to our lack of protection and preservation and our cultural limitations down through the centuries, yet by constantly returning to their sources, religions will be better equipped to respond to today’s needs (200). Dialogue between religions is desperately needed for the sake of protecting nature, defending the poor, and building networks of respect and fraternity (201). In the same way, dialogue between areas of the sciences is important too, because the gravity of the ecological crisis demands that we all look to the common good (201). Reflection, discussion and sharing: 1. Reflect on the ways you share in our common humanity. How does this challenge individual selfishness? 2. Are there ways in which my ‘deep love for the land’ can be nourished? What could I do as an individual and/or as part of a community/family to help develop and grow such a love? 3. Reflect on and share about what Pope Francis means when he says that the problem requires change and not just solutions. 4. How do my convictions about love, justice and peace and the heart spirituality I profess affect my choices about caring for creation?
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