TREASURE CREATION AS OUR HOME

Every year from 1 September to 4 October, the Universal Church observes the Season of Creation. It is a time for prayer, reflection and action to care for our common home, the Earth. The season ends on 4 October with the feast of St Francis of Assisi, the saint who loved God’s creation, and reminded us that all creatures are our brothers and sisters.

This year is particularly significant because the Church celebrates the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ “Canticle of the Creatures” and the receipt of his stigmata. In 2026, we will mark the 800th anniversary of his death. As Patron of Italy and a universal model of simplicity and peace, St. Francis continues to inspire us to love and protect God’s creation.

This weekend, we reflect on the theme: “Let Justice and Peace Flow.” The destruction of the environment is not only about polluted rivers or disappearing forests. At its core, it is also about broken relationships, selfishness, greed and injustice. When creation suffers, people suffer too - especially the poor and vulnerable. Without justice, there can be no peace. And without peace, creation cannot flourish.

During this Season of Creation, we are encouraged to pause and listen. The voice of creation is heard in the cry of the Earth, in the cry of the poor, and even in the silence of forests, rivers, and skies. Creation is God’s precious gift, yet it suffers from climate change, pollution and exploitation. We are called to be healers, protectors and co-workers with God in protecting and renewing the Earth.

Pope Francis, in Laudato Sí, reminds us that ecological conversion is not only about science, innovation or politics, but it also touches our faith deeply. It calls us to gratitude, simplicity and solidarity. To care for creation is to live out the Gospel, for Jesus came to bring life in abundance for all – not just for humans, but for every creature.

Here are some practical steps we can take in our daily lives:

a.     Pray for creation – Thank God for the beauty of nature, and ask for the grace to care for it.

b.     Reduce waste – Use less plastic - recycle and avoid unnecessary consumption.

c.     Save energy and water – Turn off lights, conserve water and opt for walking or cycling whenever possible.

d.     Plant and protect – Care for trees, plants or even small gardens, as signs of hope.

e.     Support the poor – Remember that environmental harm affects the poor first. Acts of charity and justice go hand in hand with care for the Earth.

As we journey through this Season of Creation, let us not only admire nature but also act with courage and hope. May the spirit of St Francis of Assisi inspire us to treasure creation as our home and to safeguard it for generations to come.