Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The encyclical “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home” by Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of intergenerational justice and solidarity when it comes to caring for the environment. The document highlights that considering the legacy left to future generations changes how people approach ecological issues. Pope Francis writes, “Intergenerational solidarity is not optional, since the world we have received also belongs to those who will follow us.”

Local parishes and schools are seeing examples of this collaboration. According to Ashley Davenport, director of student activities at Holy Trinity School, both adults and youth in her parish worked together on an environmental initiative. The parish’s Care for Creation Team proposed establishing an idle-free zone at their school, and the Student Council Green Team joined in.

During Earth Week last year, members of the Green Team shared research about environmental health with adults in the carpool line, distributed paper fans with parish team members, and visited classrooms to explain the significance of their efforts. This joint work allowed both groups to expand their message and encourage broader participation.

Pope Francis’s encyclical encourages these kinds of actions: “There is a nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions, and it is wonderful how education can bring about real changes in lifestyle.” He suggests that both individuals and organizations should take on greater challenges related to ecological responsibility but recommends starting with small steps within homes, classrooms, and communities.

Davenport invites community members interested in learning more about fostering intergenerational conversations around ecology to attend the next Archdiocesan Care for Creation Network meeting on August 20 or email CreationCare@archlou.org for resources.

“I challenge us all to begin first in our own homes, classrooms and communities,” Davenport said. “Consider: What conversations am I having? What acts of mine are worth sharing to create a positive ripple effect?”