The question at the heart of Laudato Si’ is “What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up?” (paragraph 160). This question is explored in numerous ways through the key themes in Pope Francis’ Encyclical.
These themes include:
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The intimate relationship between the poor and the fragility of the planet
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The conviction that everything in the world is connected
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The critique of new paradigms and forms of power derived from technology
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The call to seek other ways of understanding the economy and progress
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The value proper to each creature
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The human meaning of ecology
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The need for forthright and honest debate
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The serious responsibility of international and local policy
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The throwaway culture and the proposal of a new lifestyle (paragraph 16)
Session Two Assessment
The encyclical map below provides a summary of each of the chapters in Laudato Si. Choose one chapter summary to explore and reflect on the following:
- 3 new things that you learnt
- 2 things you found challenging
- 1 thing you found inspiring.
You may also wish to use key messages presented in the clips to help guide you.
