Scotland’s Catholic Bishops have announced their intention to set up a 'Care of Creation Office' ahead of the COP26 meeting in Glasgow later this year.
The announcement coincides with a national pastoral letter being distributed to all parishes for Pentecost Sunday (23 May 2021) on the theme of caring for creation.
It also coincides with Laudato Si' week (16-25 May), which marks the sixth anniversary of Pope Francis’ Encyclical Letter on the environment.
Today “Laudato Si’ Week” begins, to educate more and more to listen to the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor. I thank the numerous participating organizations, and I invite everyone to participate.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) May 16, 2021
The letter draws attention to the Christian message, that “we are all part of one human family and that we share a common home...our earth’s resources must be shared and used for the benefit of all”.
Bishop William Nolan, the Bishop of Galloway and President of the National Justice & Peace Commission said: "On Pentecost Sunday (23 May 2021) we mark the 5th anniversary of Laudato Si, Pope Francis’ encyclical letter on care for our common home. It reminds all Catholics of their responsibilities towards one another and the world we live.
"Inspired by the Pope’s letter and in preparation for the COP26 conference taking place in Glasgow in November, the Bishops’ Conference has decided to set-up a Care of Creation Office this year.”
The Office’s aim will be to give practical advice and guidance, helping dioceses and parishes assess their carbon footprint and discern how to work towards carbon neutrality. It will be headed by Fr Gerard Maguiness, General Secretary of the Bishops’ Conference.
Bishop Nolan added: "God has honoured us by giving humanity the task of being a co-operator in the work of creation we hope our lives enhance and build-up that creation and pray that the meeting of world leaders in Glasgow later this year bear fruit for our planet.”