Laudato si': Encyclical & Ecosocialism

Seminar Enrichment Series

In his letter to "every person living on this planet," published on Pentecost Sunday in 2015, Pope Francis said, "It is our humble conviction that the divine and the human meet in the slightest detail in the seamless garment of God’s creation, in the last speck of dust of our planet.” His words remind us that everything in creation is to be treasured and nothing used without care for its integrity. Two professors of history and leadership will explore the origins and contemporary uses of Laudato si', addressing the connection of the letter to the Church's prophetic call to good stewardship. This aspect is deeply rooted in the Jewish-Christian-Muslim traditions and was the special message of the ministry of Saint Francis of Assisi, who saw the essential tie between care for the earth and care for the most vulnerable members of the human family. They will also highlight the letter's reception and use by various activists for ecosocialism, inviting the audience to reflect on the pressing need for everyone to think critically and faithfully about the nexus between care for the earth and care for each other.

With Charles Hilken & Pratik Raghu

Related Seminar text: Pope Francis, Laudato si': On Care for Our Common Home (SEM 350)