Pope Francis encourages Brazilian Catholics to heed the theme of this year’s Lent, “Fraternity and Integral Ecology,” as part of the Campaign for Fraternity, which emphasizes ecological responsibility. He references the urgent need for personal transformation regarding environmental stewardship, particularly in light of Brazil’s hosting of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference. The Pope expresses hope that the Campaign will empower local communities to commit to integral ecology.
The National Conference of Bishops of Brazil has initiated, for 61 years, the Campaign for Fraternity, which occurs annually during Lent, focusing on a specific theme. This year’s theme, “Fraternity and Integral Ecology,” emphasizes integral conversion and acknowledges both the plight of the poor and the distress of the Earth.
On Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent, Pope Francis expressed solidarity with the Brazilian Catholic community and commended the bishops for the Campaign’s latest edition. He urged participation in a journey of conversion inspired by the encyclical, “Laudato Si’,” and its related Apostolic Exhortation, “Laudate Deum.”
In his address, the Pope underlined that the ongoing ecological crisis serves as a call for deep personal transformation, referencing the significance of “ecological conversion” mentioned by Pope John Paul II, which fosters a greater sensitivity toward environmental stewardship.
Given Brazil’s status as home to numerous unique species, environmental protection is crucial. As Brazil prepares to host COP30, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, in Belém do Pará, the Pope reiterated the Church’s commitment to support global cooperation aimed at alleviating the climate crisis and safeguarding Creation.
Pope Francis expressed hope that the 2025 Campaign for Fraternity would again serve as a significant resource for the Brazilian people, assisting them in their dedication to integral ecology through tangible actions.
The Pope’s message reflects a profound concern for ecological issues and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. Through the Campaign for Fraternity, the Church aims to inspire collective action towards solving the climate crisis, ultimately fostering a stronger commitment to caring for our environment. The upcoming Conference and the focus on integral ecology highlight the importance of both spiritual and practical engagement in preserving the Earth.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
