Four years ago, I proposed a topic for a master’s thesis in a journalism program. The topic was Catholic Social Teaching on Care of Creation, and how the church had communicated – or failed to communicate – the message. The idea to research this topic came on a Florida balcony as I looked out over … More Pope Francis’ Encyclical: The Culture of Care
[Note: Below is the text of a speech I gave at the NC Conference on Religion and Climate Change Oct. 13, 2014. I decided to publish it on this blog after several people asked for copies and our pastor, Fr. Steve Patti, OFM, based part of a recent homily on it.] Consider this quote: “Our … More Why We’re Called to Protect the Gift of Creation: The Catholic Church and Climate Change
Father Brian Pierce, OP, is a member of the Dominican order, which specializes in preaching the word of God. Father Brian spent 15 years doing ministry in Latin America, working with the poor in Peru and the Lenca Indians in western Honduras. He now travels the world leading retreats on contemplation, mysticism and spirituality, mainly … More Father Brian Pierce: Follow Christ by Engaging in Dialogue
In a time when commercialization of Christmas has gone so far that one company is referring to the holiday as “Giftmas,” some churches are promoting alternative gifts that encourage people to emulate Christ by helping the poor. Immaculate Conception, a Catholic church in Durham, N.C., on Sunday held an alternative gifts fair. Volunteers at 19 … More Church Promotes Alternative Christmas Gifts
Pope Benedict XVI appealed to world leaders meeting tomorrow in Durban, South Africa, to act in solidarity with the poor and future generations and come to “a responsible, credible response” to climate change. The pope’s statement is the latest in his appeals to leaders and the faithful to moderate desires for material wealth and be … More Pope Benedict Urges Action on Climate Change
Green Faith Report 