Using Less to Protect our Planet

Saturday 29th February 2020

In the first week of Envirolent, we will be focusing on the word reduce. This Lent many of us will be giving something up and taking time to fast.

In his encyclical, Laudato Si, Pope Francis describes our earth as “beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth” and puts this down to an increasingly throwaway culture: “These problems are closely linked to a throwaway culture which affects the excluded just as it quickly reduces things to rubbish.”

In this week’s theme, Reduce, consider whether as an individual or parish community you can weave this thinking into a year-round approach which will help us all to play our part in caring for our common home.

We have highlighted a number of practical suggestions which may help you to think about reducing your own consumption.

Reduce Electricity

Curb your emissions by switching off lights and not leaving electricals on standby. Could your parish install solar panels to help fuel your church?

Reduce Travel

How about holding a ‘Walk to Church Sunday’? For those in your parish who aren’t able to walk the distance, why not offer to pick up a friend or fellow parishioner to build your community while reducing emissions.

Reduce Meat Consumption

Reduce the amount of meat in your diet. It’s okay if you don’t want to give up completely – even one day a week can help – but it’s always good to try new things and see what you can replace with a tasty vegetarian alternative.

Reduce Stuff

Do you ever find yourself thoughtlessly buying new things or eager for the newest technology? Take a moment to step back and consider the journey your purchase has been on before reaching the shop floor. Consider alternatives like buying secondhand.

Parish Focus – Our Lady of Grace, Prestwich

At Our Lady of Grace, Prestwich, the parish community are each month focusing on one aspect of sustainability and care for Creation.

Parishioners have thought about their use of water, how to have a more sustainable Christmas and how to live with less plastic, particularly single use plastic. In the months to come, they will focus on re-using items and improving their recycling habits.

What can you do?

Why not create a Laudato Si’ study and prayer group in your parish? Start by gathering a few passionate parishioners and encouraging small change within your community. Change begins when we work together, and our individual actions quickly add up.

Download all of the Envirolent posters for parishes here, and for schools here.