Dear Parishioners,
On Wednesday Pope Francis again made an appeal on behalf of our planet and the poor, observing that natural disasters could be limited if we would take better care of the environment. He concluded: “Therefore I encourage you to join far-sighted efforts in the protection of our common home.” Well this parish has started by discussing his landmark letter on “The Care of Our Common Home”, Laudato si.
Moving on from last week’s very successful meeting which looked at the introduction to Pope Francis’ letter, this Wednesday we shall look at the first section which asks “What is Happening to Our Common Home?”. We shall divide into three groups, with each group looking at one of three important issues: pollution and climate change; waste of resources; global inequality and how we may combat it.
These issues are important to us all not only as individuals and communities but also as a nation. Pope Francis has pointed out there are many opinions on the causes of and cures for our current ecological crisis and this is your opportunity to have your say. Each group will look at one issue and then feed back to the groups as a whole for general discussion. This will provide the opportunity for everyone present to share their thoughts and views on these important issues.
We all care about the world around us and the people in it though it is sometimes hard to know and feel how as individuals we can help. This is your chance to listen to Pope Francis’ thoughts, discuss these with others and provide your own views and thoughts.
If you were not able to come to the introduction last week, this does not matter. Each session works independently to the others. We will be looking at all six sections of Pope Francis’ teachings over six evenings between now and Lent and you are welcome to come to one or all of the sessions as you are able or wish.
Tea and coffee will be provided as usual from 7:15pm onwards. The meeting will start at 7:30pm and we will finish at 8:30pm. If anyone wishes to continue the discussion for a little longer, they are more than welcome to do so. The session will finish with St Francis’ inspirational Laudato si song which, if you have not yet heard it, is an uplifting, foot tapping, inspirational hymn. Some were left humming the tune all week!
So come along and have your say on these important issues.
Fr John