April 15, 2010. It’s the reason why Benedict XVI is often referred to as the ‘green pope’, as he often talks about protecting the environment. That was his message for World Day for Peace, a topic in his encyclical ‘Caritas in Veritate’ and a recurring theme when addressing pilgrims.
Benedict XVI
“There needs to be strong action in the name of all creation, a strong commitment to reverse the trends that could lead to a irreversible situation.”
Now, the connection between theology and ecology is also the subject of a new course at the Angelicum in Rome. The 24 hour course, which wrapped up in January, is titled: Man, Guardian of creation. Ecology and Theology. The course was taught by Professor Angela Maria Cosentino.
Prof. Angela Maria Cosentino
Theologian, Angelicum
“Through creation, man can find the great love of the Father, the creator.”
According to Cosentino the course goes beyond teaching young people to ‘go green’. She says it’s made to promote reflection over the publics responsibility towards creation.
Prof. Angela Maria Cosentino
Theologian, Angelicum
“You can’t teach young people recycle a plastic bag and keep the environment clean, without teaching them to respect all living things from the time of conception to natural death.”
She says man is only one part creation. Consentino points to what Benedict XVI often says, which is that, human beings were put on earth to protect all what God created.
In fact, the pope often calls for people to connect human ecology with environmental ecology and that humanity is responsible for protecting mother nature, life, love and the family.
Prof. Angela Maria Cosentino
Theologian, Angelicum
“Benedict XVI talks about this inherent link. He makes this point when he addresses man’s unbreakable link to the family, society and ecology.”
She says the Church’s doctrine supports the concept that the environment and it’s protection are connected with essential human development.
According to Consentino this is essential to solve current environmental crisis.
But the link between man and nature in the Church’s social doctrine isn’t anything new. Nearly 20 years ago John Paul II called for a greater sense of solidarity to solve the ecological crisis in his encyclical ‘Centesimus Annus’.
Over the next 20 years, many hope, the conversation, which is taking place inside and outside the classroom, makes greater progress for the greater good of society.
MC
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