Quick Review of Laudato Si’

After reading the encyclical, Laudato Si’, I have gained a greater appreciation for nature and my relationship with others. In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis describes the complexity and issues of climate change. Climate change continues to affect nature, animals, and humans. Pope Francis believes that we must respect and love God’s gift of nature. This gift has been squandered through greed, war, industrial consumption, and human carelessness. Within society, nature is often undermined and is underappreciated. Our ravenous consumption and belief that “resources are unending,” will result in natural disasters and the destruction of our Mother Earth. Pope Francis believes that if we combine morality and modern science, we can find a solution to this madness and disarray. One approach, is to respect nature as St. Francis did. The Pope took the name “Francis” because of his deep appreciation for nature and love of animals. This commitment was tangible during St. Francis’ life, because of his deep sense of affection towards his “brother squirrel” and “mother earth.” This human personification of nature, helped St. Francis to obtain the same passion, God has for his many creations.

These thoughts and reflections regarding the environment are only a small fraction of what Laudato Si has to offer. However, this particular section spoke to me deeply and spiritually. After reading this encyclical, my love for Mother Earth has only grown stronger and has become a significant element of my life and my faith. Often, I overlook my own consumer consumption and don’t consider the consequences it has on others.  To grow closer to God, we must appreciate all the gifts he has given us. These include nature, animals, our brothers and sisters, and especially the gift of life. If we continue to squander these gifts, our connection with God will weaken and may become irrelevant over time. However, if we treat our earth and its many creations, as brothers and sisters, the problem of climate change will cease to exist. We must love and appreciate nature, and apply the “Golden Rule” to God’s many creations and gifts. Pope Francis once said, “You are called to care for creation not only as responsible citizens but also as followers of Christ.” As children of God, our care for creation and love for others, is a simple gesture and thank you to our heavenly father. Life is a gift; nature is a gift, animals are a gift, a relationship with God is a gift.