A Reflection on “Laudato Si”
By Kathleen Rabbiano, OFS, Minister, IL Poverello Secular Franciscan Fraternity, Petaluma, CA
As a Catholic making a humble attempt to live in the Secular Franciscan tradition, I was overjoyed and brought to tears when “Laudato Si”, the newest encyclical written by Pope Francis, was released. Pope Francis uses words from “The Canticle of the Creatures”, written by Francis of Assisi, to begin his address “to every living person on this planet.” “Praise be to you my Lord, through our Sister, Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruit with colored flowers and herbs.”
The romantic tone quickly becomes serious, calling for change in consumer lifestyles, acknowledgment of the human impact on present environmental degradation and consideration of the elements of integral ecology. Pope Francis questions the wisdom of large scale agriculture and genetic modification, especially in how these high tech processes affect soil health, cause loss of work for small farmers, and dependency in the case of the production and use of infertile seeds (such as pushed by Monsanto).
The importance of linking sustainable development with intergenerational solidarity is emphasized. Pope Francis states we must think about what we are leaving to future generations. (Indigenous groups have been teaching this for years). Also, the care of poor and marginalized members of the human family demands sacrifice and change in values from the powerful individuals and nations currently in existence.
Pope Francis speaks to faith communities about the relationships one has with God, one’s neighbors and creation- these will affect how one acts in the face of the current environmental crisis, human rights violations and injustice. When we can become family to each other and creation, viewing Mother Earth as our common home, we can envision the possibility for change and survival.
Our local Interfaith Sustainable Food Collaborative presents a forum for reflection and action in harmony with the views expressed in “Laudato Si.” Supporting local organic farm growth, working toward provision of healthy food for all members in a community, and recognizing the value of different faith perspectives on our way in moving toward a shared goal are creating a different peacemaking strategy and building awareness of the need for simplicity and care in our daily lives.
At the end of his writing, Pope Francis states “Let us sing as we go. May our struggles and our concern for this planet never take away the joy of our hope. God, who calls us to generous commitment and to give him our all, offers us the light and the strength needed to continue.”
In peace….Kathleen Robbiano, OFS