We are counting down to the next Season of Creation, in which this year we are invited to “hope and act with Creation”. Like Pope Francis, with his annual messages, the bishops of the world are also speaking out and encouraging their communities to participate in this ecumenical time.
The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development has posted resources and materials on its website, encouraging churches around the world to join in the global celebration that seeks to unite Christians in action and prayer for the care of creation.
What do the bishops say about the Season of Creation?
Bishops’ conferences around the world have echoed the Pope’s message, but with special emphasis on the needs and realities of their local community. In this time of struggle for our common home, the bishops’ action gives us hope for a better future. Here are some of the messages and resources they have posted:
The Spanish Episcopal Conference issued a message reflecting on hope and considering the human being as a being “called to take care of the natural home, but without considering himself as the absolute center of the universe”, and, at the same time, “recognizing his interdependence with other living beings and the environment of which he is a part”.
The Irish bishops, together with the Trócaire Foundation, launched resources for parishes to use during the Season of Creation, including a guide for the five Sundays with various materials; and a booklet with tips on biodiversity, litter and activities in creation.
The Episcopal Commission for Creation Justice of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, meanwhile, kicked off the fifth year of its “Protec” campaign, which begins each year at the start of the Season of Creation, in which its bishop calls for “full celebration” and a reduction in paper and wood consumption.
Discover the resources available for the Season of Creation and the words of the world’s bishops here.
The Italian bishops also provide a series of materials and activity ideas for living the Season of Creation on their website, as well as texts for further study and other resources.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has made its materials available for use by dioceses and parishes. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of San Angelo in the United States, sent a message to his community saying that “the Season of Creation calls us, guided by the Holy Spirit, to change our negative manner of acting and teaches us that hope is present in the waiting and working together for the expectation of a better future (Rom 8:20-21).
Walking together as a Church and inspired by the messages of the Pope and bishops around the world, let’s celebrate the Season of Creation! Find all the information you need to be part of this celebration here.