At audience, Pope urges Christians to unite in prayer for environment
August 29, 2016
During his Angelus audience on Sunday, August 29, Pope Francis called attention to the annual World Day of Prayer for Creation, which will be observed on September 1.
The World Day of Prayer for Creation is an initiative of the Orthodox Church, begun in 1989. The Pope described it as "an opportunity to strengthen the common commitment to safeguard life, respecting the environment and nature." The day, he said, should be used "to thank God for the wonderful handiwork which He has entrusted to our care, and implore his help for the protection of creation as well as his pardon for the sins committed against the world in which we live."
During the same Sunday audience, the Pope reflected on the day's Gospel reading from St. Luke, and Christ's teaching that "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." He offered his praise and thanks to all those who work at soup kitchens, shelters for the homeless, and similar projects, saying that they illustrated the message of the Gospel reading.
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Further information:
- Pope Francis: Angelus catechesis on humility, generosity (Vatican Radio)
- Pope Francis heralds upcoming Day of Prayer for Care of Creation (Vatican Radio)
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Posted by: Randal Mandock -
Aug. 31, 2016 11:38 AM ET USA
"...his pardon for the sins committed against the world." Let me remember: examination of conscience, contrition, firm purpose of amendment, confession to a priest, satisfaction. Are Catholics, as persons or an ecclesial body, to ask pardon for sins we did not commit? Have you burned down the rainforest in order to produce illegal drugs? Have you illegally dumped toxins into the environment? Have you opposed technologies that can minimize human impact on the environment? If so, ask for pardon.
