Throughout 2024, the Laudato Si’ Action Platform has inspired global ecological action through its blogs, sharing profound insights and stories that encourage us to care for our common home.
Here are some of the most impactful quotes from this year along with the back stories that make them stand out:
1. Celebrating three years of the Laudato Si’ Action Platform
“Three years ago, the Laudato Si’ Action Platform was launched. I thank those who work to support this initiative.” – Pope Francis, during his Angelus in Saint Peter’s Square, November 10, 2024
As the platform marked its third anniversary, Pope Francis acknowledged the tireless work of its participants and the platform’s role in promoting integral ecology. His words reinforced the importance of global collaboration to protect our common home as the other words of wisdom below showcase.
2. An Archdioceses charts their commitment to Laudato Si’
“As disciples, we are called to step out of our comfort zones and build relationships with those around us, especially with the vulnerable and forgotten – the poor, the marginalized, the outcasts. Our world is in desperate need of love. As God’s people, we are called to be that hope, to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world today.” – Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, Archdiocese of San Antonio, Texas, United States.
Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller’s poignant words highlight the Archdiocese of San Antonio’s dedication to embodying the principles of Laudato Si’. By focusing on outreach to marginalized communities, the Archdiocese demonstrates a living example of ecological and social justice in action, reinforcing the call for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to environmental stewardship.
3. Insights from a sanctuary in Chile
“Look at the planet, think about the legacy. We used to think of legacy as something material that we would pass on to our children. But today, it is for the planet. These small actions are for the children. We have no other choice.” – Executive Director Sister Marianela Sánchez, Laura Vicuña Sanctuary
Sister Marianela Sánchez from Laura Vicuña Sanctuary in Chile provides a transformative perspective on legacy, which she redefines as a commitment to planetary care rather than material inheritance. This shift underscores the urgency of adopting sustainable practices that benefit future generations, showcasing the sanctuary’s role in promoting environmental awareness and action.
4. Connecting Dioceses: A global response to Laudato Si’
“We in the United States have much to learn from our Latin American brothers and sisters.” — Paz Artaza-Regan, Program Manager of Creation Care Teams, Catholic Climate Covenant
This blog highlighted the success of the platform’s diocesan initiatives, where communities across the globe came together to exchange ideas and experiences. These connections demonstrated the power of collective action in advancing ecological conversion. Furthermore, this theme of cross-cultural learning and collaboration highlights the unity and diversity of global responses to ecological issues within the Church’s framework.
5. How to value a small gathering’s power
“Even if we are only two people, praying together by torchlight on a winter’s night, it has meaning because others see us and wonder.” – Christian Friedrich, Laudato Si’ Animator
This story explored the significance of grassroots efforts, emphasizing how even small gatherings and local initiatives can make a profound difference in ecological stewardship and building stronger communities.
Bonus: A story from the Amazon and a call for justice
“We must hear the cries of both the Earth and the poor. Protecting biodiversity-rich regions like the Amazon is not just an environmental concern—it’s a matter of justice and dignity for its people.” –Friar Erick Marín Carballo, OFMConv
Focusing on the Pan-Amazon region, Friar Erick Marín Carballo, OFMConv in Costa Rica shared his witness of deforestation and environmental exploitation during our webinar “Voices of Faith and Hope: Global Catholic Religious in the Heart of Climate Action,” co-hosted with the Justice, Peace and Integrity Commission from the men and women’s international Unions of Superiors General. His was among other stories of ley responses to the ecological crisis from religious around the globe, highlighted again in this blog.
These quotations reflect the depth and breadth of the 2024 blogs, showcasing the power of faith, education, and community in advancing the mission of Laudato Si’. Together, they remind us of the urgency and hope that guide our shared journey toward caring for our common home.