July: Exploring the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty
A gathering hosted by the LSM Asia Pacific Advocacy Working Group brought together individuals to explore the call to develop a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and its significance in the context of sustainability, justice and peace and guided by our Catholic Faith.
The session featured Fr. Warren Puno from the Diocese of Lucena in the Philippines, who shared stories illustrating the harmful effects of coal-fired power plants on local communities. Through his accounts, participants gained a deeper understanding of the importance of addressing ecological issues with compassion and urgency. Fr. Puno’s words underscored the immediate need for collective action to preserve our planet for future generations.
Fr. Eduardo Agosta Scarel, Senior Advocacy Advisor of Laudato Si’ Movement, emphasized the treaty’s alignment with Christianvalues and its potential to advance climate justice and sustainability.
The session offered an opportunity for reflection on our shared responsibility.
“I am from New Zealand and the Green Party here is working hard to get these messages across in a secular way. The faith based discourse here is very helpful, and I really learnt from the first speaker about strategies to make progress in the cause.”– Mary, New Zealand
Isaura and other members of LSM Timor Leste participated in theOcean Heroes Bootcamp in January
August: Youth Encounter Inspires Action on Biodiversity Conservation
Teaming up with the Don Bosco Green Alliance, Laudato Si’ Movement organized an empowering online Youth Encounter focusing on the importance of biodiversity conservation. . Facilitated by Laudato Si’ Movement (LSM)-Timor Leste, the event brought together young leaders from various countries to share their insights and experiences.
During the encounter, the young leaders offered invaluable advice to their peers who are eager to make a difference in protecting our common home:
- Irvan Prasetio, Indonesia Global Youth Biodiversity Network: Irvan emphasized the power of starting small and thinking big. He encouraged youth to initiate change through manageable actions in their daily lives such as controlling lifestyles, reducing plastic usage and opting for sustainable transportation.
- Isaura Barros, Laudato Si’ Movement-Timor Leste: Isaura shared her journey of persistence in advocating for climate justice and environmental actions. She emphasized the importance of not giving up even in the face of challenges, reminding fellow youth that change requires unwavering commitment.
- Leann D’Souza, Don Bosco Green Alliance, India: Leann advised young change-makers to seek knowledge and learn from experienced individuals in their respective fields. Understanding the issues they are passionate about is key to initiating positive change.
- Anthony Judy, Green Idia: Antony stressed the significance of celebrating small victories along the way. Recognizing even modest achievements help maintain motivation and reinforces commitment to the cause.
- Mark Raquino, Philippines Global Youth Biodiversity Network: Mark highlighted the importance of nurturing connections and networks. He encouraged collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations to amplify impact. Mark also urged young activists to defy stereotypes and believe in their capabilities, regardless of age.
The Youth Encounter served as a powerful reminder of the potential of youth-led initiatives in driving positive change. Through collective action and determination, these young leaders are paving the way for a more biodiverse future.
“It is my first time to be a panelist in a regional event and I hope I represented my country well. We never learn about the environment and climate crisis in school- they do not teach us that. We learn this through participating in events such as this one. The event really inspired me to do more!”- Isaura, Laudato Si’ Movement-Timor Leste
September: Streams to a Mighty River: Uniting Asia and Oceania in the Season of Creation to Safeguard our Common Home
During the Season of Creation, the Laudato Si’ Movement made a resounding call to action in a virtual gathering launching a campaign for a Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty and reaching out to Catholic communities in Asia and Oceania. Led by Jacqui Remond from Australia and Br. John Din of Laudato Si’ Movement Pilipinas, the event offered insights from Fr. Warren Puno of the Diocese of Lucena, Philippines, Philippa Rowland of Religions for Peace Australia, and Mitzi Salcedo of the Ecoteneo youth group in the Philippines.
Jacqui, in her opening remarks, emphasized: “The launch of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is a campaign that now includes faith communities. Today, in particular, we invite participation from Catholic communities across Asia and Oceania. Our aim is to establish a powerful collective action rooted in integral ecology, inspired by the call from Pope Francis in Laudato Si, which brings together all wisdom traditions, knowledge, and understandings to care for our common home.”
Notable Catholic leaders in Asia and Oceania, including Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi of Tonga, Bishop Allwyn D’ Silva of Bombay, and Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of Fiji, along with Filipino bishops Gerardo Alminaza, Joey Rapadas III, and Edwin Angot de la Peña, endorsed the treaty.
Yet, this gathering represents just one ripple in the vast stream of activities and commitments witnessed during the Season of Creation across Asia and Oceania . The season ignited vibrant initiatives and inspiring stories throughout our community, with several national episcopal conferences endorsing celebrations featuring various activities, pastoral letters, and advocacy efforts.
Participants march in solidarity during the Walk for Creation in the Philippines
For instance, the Catholic Bishops Conference in the Philippines marked the season with a powerful call against climate injustice and biodiversity loss, echoing the collective voice for change. In Korea, a lively street march inaugurated the Season of Creation, bolstered by the presence of the Chairman of the Ecological Environment Committee of the bishops’ conference, highlighting a unified commitment to environmental stewardship.
Through poignant video messages, leaders such as Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Myanmar and Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo of Jakarta, Indonesia, underscored the critical crossroads humanity faces, urging immediate action to avert ecological catastrophe. Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Bishop Zhou Shouren led reflective sessions following screenings of “The Letter” at an event organized by the Hong Kong Diocese Commission on Integral Human Development.
From the smallest parish to the highest church leadership, the Season of Creation has evolved into a mighty river, coursing through diverse communities and carrying a message of hope, unity, and urgent action.
October: Responding to Laudate Deum: A Reflection Session
In response to Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, Laudate Deum, the Laudato Si’ Movement organized a reflection session uniting members across Asia and Oceania. Led by Bishop Allwyn D’ Silva of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences-Office of Human Development and hosted by Sr. Ann-Baree O’Beirne of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea, the event drew over 200 participants. Together, they reflected on the exhortation’s significance and engaged in critical conversations about the pressing need for the region to transition away from fossil fuels.
The session featured valuable insights from Alice Carwardine of Catholic Earthcare Australia, Kositatino Tikomaibolatagane of Caritas Fiji, and Sr. Maria Vida Cordero from the Philippines. Additionally, a dedicated youth session, led by Br. Rodel Alcoser of the Diocese of Malaybalay in the Philippines provided perspectives from young people in formation. Similar reflection sessions were conducted by the Laudato Si Movement-Korea and in various other countries across the region.
Bishop Allwyn emphasized: “In Laudate Deum 72 as well as in other places, the fossil fuels are mentioned…there is a need to adapt alternative energy.”
November-December: Pre- Christmas Call to Action: Oceania Bishops Advocate for Fossil Fuel Phase Out
In a significant move, Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of Fiji delivered a stirring address at COP 28 during a high-level event focused on the Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty. Hosted by Vanuatu and Tuvalu, the event emphasized the pivotal role of eliminating fossil fuels particularly for island communities “ whose life is grounded on their relationship with the Earth, the sea, and plants. Ending fossil fuels protects the very existence, identity, and dignity of Pacific Islanders.”
Meanwhile, the Oceania Catholic Bishops Conference (CEPAC) issued a powerful Pastoral Letter on Climate Change, shedding light on the region’s susceptibility to climate impacts and economic exploitation. The letter calls for a transition away from fossil fuels and adoption of sustainable, long-term solutions. Emphasizing the need for solidarity among Oceania island nations, the bishops advocate for global ecological conversion and urge the international community “ for immediate and effective commitments to immediately move the world to a fossil fuel free world. “.
These represent just a few of the moments we celebrated and reflected on during the Christmas gatherings of the members of the movement of LSM in Asia Pacific region, a time marked with gratitude for our shared journey and renewed commitment to protecting our common home.
Meanwhile, the Oceania Catholic Bishops Conference (CEPAC) issued a powerful Pastoral Letter on Climate Change, shedding light on the region’s susceptibility to climate impacts and economic exploitation. The letter calls for a transition away from fossil fuels and adoption of sustainable, long-term solutions. Emphasizing the need for solidarity among Oceania island nations, the bishops advocate for global ecological conversion and urge the international community “ for immediate and effective commitments to immediately move the world to a fossil fuel free world. “.
These represent just a few of the moments we celebrated and reflected on during the Christmas gatherings of the members of the movement of LSM in Asia Pacific region, a time marked with gratitude for our shared journey and renewed commitment to protecting our common home.
January- February 2024 milestones
In January, the Laudato Si’ Movement Indonesia released its 2024 Laudato Si’ Calendar. Packed with information on and valuable insights, this calendar serves as a roadmap for engaging in meaningful creation care work.
Meanwhile, Laudato Si’ Movement Korea celebrated a significant milestone in February: their 200th Friday of Climate Action. Each Friday, dedicated members in Seoul gather from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm to raise awareness about climate change and environmental concerns. Positioned at busy intersections, they advocate against the construction of a major fossil fuel-powered plant and urge banks to divest from such projects. Discover more about their Friday Climate action here.
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- Sr. Irena of LSM-Indonesia proudly shows the Laudato Si’ Calendar
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- LSM Korea’s 200th Climate Action
Embracing New Beginnings: Save the Date for our First Community Gathering of 2024
We are excited to announce our first community gathering of 2024 led by the Laudato Si Movement-Indonesia on March 13 at 6 PM Jakarta/ 7 PM Manila/10 PM Sydney.
During our gathering, we will pause to reflect on the significance of the Lenten Season, and embark on a journey of contemplation and renewal together. Additionally, we will offer an insightful look into the work being carried out by Laudato Si’ Movement-Indonesia. We will also share our initiatives that will advance our shared mission.
Mark your calendars and register for the gathering HERE.
We cannot wait to see you there!
Embrace the Lenten Fossil Fuel Fast Campaign
Embark on a meaningful Lenten journey by reducing your reliance on fossil fuels through five simple practices. Start your journey by endorsing the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty by signing the interfaith letter and pledging to adopt eco-friendly habits during Lent. Pledge your commitment to the five practices here. Learn more at https://laudatosilent.org/asia-pacific/.
Download your Lenten Pledge Card
Lenten Reflection for Asian Youth: March 10th
Young Catholics across Asia: Join Bishop Allwyn D’Silva of the Archdiocese of Bombay and Asian Bishops Conferences-Office of Human Development and the Laudato Si’ Movement for a Special Lenten Recollection. Dive deeper into the teachings of Laudato Si and Laudate Deum, and explore the actions that yong people can take to protect our common home. Register now! https://forms.gle/vrHGcGZy978W27Rg8
Lenten Reflection Poster with link to the registration
Philippines: Join the Laudato Si’ Expressions: The Letter Challenge
Calling all teachers, catechists, youth advisers and youth leaders in the Philippines! Laudato Si’ Movement-Pilipinas has just kicked off an exciting film campaign aimed at inspiring ecological commitment among young people. Win prizes while making a positive change! Learn more and register here. https://bit.ly/LSExpressions .
Local and National Encounters
Join the synodal journey with the Laudato Si’ Movement. Our local and national encounters are opportunities for listening, discernment, and strengthening our commitment to care for our common home. Together, let’s shape the future of our movement! Keep an eye out for an email with further details.
Share Your Journey:
Inspire other Laudato Si’ Animators by sharing your work with us at [email protected].
Follow the Laudato Si’ Movement- Asia Pacific social media page.