Integral Ecology: A Far-Sighted Vision

When we speak of the “environment,”
what we really mean is a relationship
 existing between nature and the society which lives in it…
We are faced not with two separate crises, one environmental and the other social,
but rather with one complex crisis which is both social and environmental.

Pope Francis, Laudato Sì, 139

One of the brilliant insights of Pope Francis’ watershed document on the environment, Laudato Sì, is that the pain of the planet is intertwined with the suffering of human beings.  Easy answers are not enough; in fact they almost always exacerbate the climate crisis.  We intuit this when we feel anxious or overwhelmed by climate change.

Pope Francis explains that this complex problem requires a complex solution.  He proposes a multifaceted solution called Integral Ecology.  This involves:

• the interplay of the environment, economics and society
• cultural ecology
• the ecology of everyday life
• the principle of the common good
• justice between generations

In involving all these facets as we build solutions, we become capable of creating plans far-sighted enough to address climate change effectively.

Let a day of reflection on Integral Ecology “take us to the heart of what it is to be human” (Laudato Sì, 11).  We will unpack the facets of integral ecology through input from Bernadette, reflection, discussion, prayer, poetry, letter writing to future generations and song.  We will return to the wellspring of Goodness and Love, so that we can plan creatively for the future.

We will spend time outside, weather permitting so please dress appropriately.  You may wish to bring sunblock and bug spray, as well as a journal.  Cranaleith is committed to sustainability, so we encourage you to bring a reuseable beverage bottle.