Living the Spirit of Laudato Si’
23 May 2025
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on care for our common home. It challenges us to live in a way that respects both the planet and the dignity of every person — especially those who are struggling or isolated.
Pope Francis encouraged us to:
“Encounter Jesus who comes in every brother and sister who needs us, and to share with them what we can: listening, time, concrete assistance.”
Here are some practical ways to live this message each day:
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Be mindful of who might need your support: Look around your neighbourhood or parish. Who might be feeling isolated or burdened? Invite someone over for a meal, reach out to a neighbour you don’t yet know, or offer company to someone attending Mass alone. Visit elderly people in rest homes or social housing.
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Spend time, not money: Give your presence and your skills. Offer to cook a meal, babysit, teach a skill, help with a garden, or repair something. Make vouchers promising time together or shared activities — your attention is a valuable gift.
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Share what you have: Gift homemade items or treasured belongings. Grow seedlings and herbs to give in repurposed containers. Donate garden produce or flowers. Contribute to community support efforts — place goods in the Vinnies basket at church, donate to Caritas or other Catholic charities, or help a family with school costs or a bill.
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Shop and gift with intention: Choose second-hand or locally made goods. Reuse and recycle materials — wrap gifts in fabric or pages from magazines. Support businesses that are ethical, sustainable, and community-focused.
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Celebrate with simplicity: Create art or write letters. Use natural materials for decorating your space. Focus on moments shared rather than things bought.
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Choose low-impact travel: Walk or bike to Mass or a picnic. Take the bus to explore your town or visit someone. Reduce your fuel use and embrace slower, more connected ways of getting around.
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Have conversations that matter: Ask young people for ideas on reducing waste and plastic. Talk to elders about what truly matters to them. Ask how you can help. Ask for help when needed.
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Be present. Be grateful.
Notice the natural world. Give thanks for creation, for community, and for the opportunities we have to live with compassion and purpose.
Laudato Si’ continues to call us to a more thoughtful, generous, and sustainable way of living. Let’s take that call seriously — one person, one action, one choice at a time.
