Marking the tenth anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful that the responsibility of caring for creation is not optional but central to our Christian vocation. Addressing participants in the Raising Hope Conference on climate justice, the Pope reflected on the enduring legacy of Pope Francis’ ecological encyclical and urged believers to examine their consciences before God.
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo expressed gratitude for the global influence of Laudato Si’, noting that “its impact…has extended to summits, interreligious initiatives, economic and business circles, as well as theological and bioethical studies.” He highlighted that the phrase “care for our common home” has become a recognized part of academic work and public discourse across the world.
A Call to Ecological Conversion
Pope Leo stressed that the challenges identified in Laudato Si’ are “even more relevant today than they were ten years ago.” He explained that they are not only social or political issues, but deeply spiritual ones, requiring what Pope Francis once called a “conversion of heart.”
“The heart is where the deepest searching takes place, where one’s ultimate identity is found, and where decisions are forged,” Pope Leo said. “It is only by returning to the heart that a true ecological conversion can take place.” He emphasized that this conversion demands a shift “from collecting data to caring; from environmental discourse to lifestyles inspired by faith and love of God” (Vatican News).
The Unity of Creation and Justice
Quoting from Pope Francis’ vision of Saint Francis of Assisi, Pope Leo reminded listeners that ecological concern, justice for the poor, social commitment, and inner peace cannot be separated. “All are one,” the Pope explained, urging the faithful to recognize how the cries of creation and the cries of the poor are bound together.
As world leaders prepare for upcoming global summits such as COP30 and the UN’s 2026 Water Conference, Pope Leo appealed for courage and integrity. He called on leaders to listen to “the cries of the Earth and the poor, families, indigenous peoples, involuntary migrants and believers throughout the world” (Vatican News).
What Will Be Our Answer?
Concluding his message, Pope Leo offered a question that pierces the conscience: “God will ask us if we have cultivated and cared for the world that He created, and if we have taken care of our brothers and sisters. What will be our answer?”
This challenge echoes the heart of Laudato Si’. It is not merely about environmental policies but about faith, justice, and love. For Catholics, Pope Leo’s reminder is both a call to action and a summons to examine how our daily choices reflect the Gospel’s demand to protect the gift of creation and the dignity of all people.
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