As many of you have probably heard, Pope Benedict XVI has recently resigned due to health conditions. As people being to look though the Pope's papacy of the last eight years, they may of found that one of his many accomplishments was in fact he was passionate about the environment. He gave speeches and homilies about his concern for future leaders and how climate change is going to affect "poor and vulnerable people at home and around the world." He also recommended to world leaders cut carbon dioxide emissions, reduce existing pollution, and begin to prepare for climate change. Benedict approved a plan to cover The Vatican's Paul VI Hall in solar panels, and now has a hybrid popemobile that's partial electric. I think it's great when religious leaders who is a great influence to a billion members of the catholic church take action against about environmental awareness.
I feel like this article (linked here) is very relevant in many cases; in one instance we were just talking about how different religions view wanting to save the environment, and for another instance with the Pope resigning recently now is a great time to be looking to see what Pope Benedict accomplished and hopefully leaving big shoes to the future Pope to fill.
I think it is very important that a leader of such a large portion of the world population cares about the environment. I truly hope that the next Pope will carry on this mindset because it is only becoming more important. As the church carries out the transition, I hope that they find a leader who can keep the traditional values alive while incorporating some of the large changes going on in the world.
ReplyDeleteIn class we discussed Christian religions and their views on the environment. It is true that Christianity is much more anthropocentric than other religions, but that doesn't mean that changes cannot be made. Engaging in environmental activity as a church is something that could really change the world.
I think integrating the environmental movement with religion is key to get others to care and take action towards a more sustainable society. So many people are religious. Looking specifically at Christianity, like Sarah said, it is the most anthropocentric of religions. But like in the video we watched, religious communities are willing to perceive the environment in a new way. The pastor in a small southern town got the entire community involved in environmental efforts, such as recycling. He brought the environment back into religion by making it the topic of a sermon. Not only have we all witnessed this in the video, but I have personally witnessed this movement through the church my cousin leads. He went to school to become a pastor and is now heading efforts in his church to reduce their carbon footprints. He says discussing with me the environment and their ties with God to really bring to light the importance of preserving God's earth. All it takes is discussion and spiritual connection and I think anyone could get anyone to be concerned.
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