Dear Friends of Creation,
We face a critical moment in our nation’s and planet’s history, and the new political landscape under the Trump Administration makes the challenges ahead seem overwhelming. However, as members of the U.S. Catholic community, we are called to meet these challenges and live our faith fully. This means protecting all of God’s creation, lifting the voices of those impacted by environmental injustice, and pursuing the common good with faith, hope, love, and action, guided by Scripture, Catholic Social Teaching, and the wisdom of our Church leaders.
Scientists are unified on the causes of climate change and warn that without quick and comprehensive action, we are heading towards an existential threat to the Earth and all of its inhabitants, especially the most vulnerable among us. We at Catholic Climate Covenant heed Pope Francis’ words in Laudato Si’ to “hear both the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor” (LS 49).
Here are a few ways we invite you to get involved, take action, and spread hope.
Pray for all of God’s Creation
As Pope Francis said in Laudato Si’ (LS 246), “Christian spirituality proposes an alternative understanding of the quality of life and how it can be improved.” Our faith is a powerful tool in this struggle, and prayer strengthens us to carry out God’s work on Earth. You can find Homily Helps and Prayer and Worship resources on our website.
Be a Pilgrim of Hope for Creation
Join tens of thousands of pilgrims who will be sharing in a local pilgrimage experience to better appreciate God’s Creation and the damage our actions have on the environment. Sign up here to learn more and gather resources for a successful pilgrimage in your community.
Advocate for the Earth
We must be vocal in calling for policies that protect creation. This includes advocating for clean and renewable energy, pushing back against harmful deregulation of rules and laws that protect life, and speaking out in defense of those who suffer most from environmental degradation. We must work to influence our elected officials at all levels to uphold their duty to care for the Earth and its inhabitants, especially the poor and vulnerable. Join the Encounter for Our Common Home advocacy campaign, as it remains a critical way for Catholics to unite in calling for action. You can view Encounter and all of our other programs here.
Live Simply and Sustainably
Each of us is called to be good stewards of the Earth. Laudato Si’ challenges us to live simply and resist the “throwaway” mindset that too often drives consumption. From reducing waste to supporting renewable energy, every small act contributes to the common good. You can find all of our educational resources and materials here.
Support Local Action Through Creation Care Teams
Join or create a Creation Care Team in your parish or community. These groups provide a strong and vital way for Catholics to respond to the climate crisis. The resources and ongoing support offered by Catholic Climate Covenant, including the “We’re All Part of God’s Plan(et)” materials, can help strengthen and guide your local efforts. Together, we can create a strong network of faith-centered creation care advocates.
Empower and Accompany the Next Generation
The youth of our Church have a crucial role to play as it is their future that is in peril. Through Youth and Young Adult Mobilization Programs, we encourage and support young Catholics to become leaders in creation care. Let’s work together to create an intergenerational movement.
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The task before us is indeed great, but it is not insurmountable. As St. Teresa of Avila said, “Christ has no body now on earth but yours, no hands but yours, no feet but yours.” We are the body of Christ, and it is through our actions that His work continues. We must find strength in our faith, remain steadfast in our resolve, and, above all, work together. We are not alone in this mission. The Church has a long tradition of creation care, from Jesus to St. Francis of Assisi to our modern Popes, especially Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. We must take inspiration from their examples and move forward with courage and compassion, knowing that the work we do today will echo through generations to come.
Thank you for your continued commitment to protecting God’s creation. Together, we will be the change that the world needs. May God bless you and guide your efforts to care for creation and all of God’s children
With gratitude, solidarity, and unending hope,
The Staff of Catholic Climate Covenant