Nicolas Pol - Response to Outside Reading 2

 Taking this class is very relevant, especially considering what is happening in the Catholic Church. To give context to this, Pope Francis made the following statement in his Laudato Si' No.15:

“I will begin by briefly reviewing several aspects of the present ecological crisis, with the aim of drawing on the results of the best scientific research available today, letting them touch us deeply and provide a concrete foundation for the ethical and spiritual itinerary that follows. I will then consider some principles drawn from the Judaeo-Christian tradition which can render our commitment to the environment more coherent. I will then attempt to get to the roots of the present situation, so as to consider not only its symptoms but also its deepest causes. This will help to provide an approach to ecology which respects our unique place as human beings in this world and our relationship to our surroundings. In light of this reflection, I will advance some broader proposals for dialogue and action which would involve each of us as individuals, and also affect international policy.”

In the traditions of 20th and 21st century, Abrahamic religions have shied away from the topic of climate change, as it is seen as going against the 'perfect creation' that God has made. 

Yet we live in a time where every organization needs to make a statement regarding climate change. 

In class, we talk about spirituality a lot, yet specific religious institutions never really got much attention in our discussion. 

I think that statements like these are important, because regardless of the religion itself, it proves that culture as a whole is moving towards an environmentally-conscious mindset. 

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