6 challenges due to climate change, Pope Francis implores us all to strengthen the conviction that we are one single human family—there are no frontiers or barriers, political or social, behind which we can hide (52). VI Weak Responses Sister earth cries out, pleading that we take another course The mistreatment of our planet in the last two hundred years in particular clashes with God’s plan for peace, beauty and fullness (53), and still leadership which is capable of striking out on new paths and meeting the needs of the present with concern for all and without prejudice towards coming generations (53) is lacking. Such failures, seen in recent global summits, clearly demonstrate that our politics are subject to too many special interests, and economic interests easily end up trumping the common good (54). While some progress is being made and the ecological sensitivities of many people are growing, this has not succeeded in in changing their harmful habits of consumption (55). As various world resources are depleted, Pope Francis warns of new wars (57) which may induce those with a misguided and selfish interest in preserving the status quo to hold onto power, only to be remembered for their inability to take action when it was urgent and necessary to do so (57). Men and women are capable of intervening positively, and many are doing this; environmental improvements are evident in some countries where rivers and woodlands have been restored and non-polluting energy is produced and used, but our global problems are far from being solved. VII A Variety of Opinions Nothing will be solved without the need for ethical considerations and deep change Honest, expert debate is to be encouraged, and diverse views respected, but things are now reaching a breaking point...humanity has disappointed God’s expectations (61). Reflection, discussion and sharing: 1. Read (or re-read) chapter 1 of Laudato Si’. What words or phrases link with our charism and Heart Spirituality? 2. All creation is connected. Are there aspects of our lives that ignore this reality and call us to conversion? How can I find time to appreciate God’s wonders more, beginning with my neighbour in need? For all our limitations, solidarity and care cannot but well up within us, since we were made for LOVE (58)
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