Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ calls us to reflect on many aspects of our world and own lives. When reading it for the first time, what stood out to me most is his message that we need to live in right relationship with the earth.
This surprised me in a way I didn’t expect. Of course I knew before reading the encyclical that we should care for creation. However, I didn’t realize that this call to live in right relationship with the earth is on the same plane as the call to live in right relationship with God and with others.
When I think of an examination of conscience, it usually involves reflecting on my relationship with God and with others, but has not included my relationship with our common home.
Laudato Si’ has helped me understand that this call of “right relationship” needs to extend to the created world. Going forward, let us all increase our reflection and response to this call.