During Lent, the Church encourages the faithful to focus on five areas of care and concern, including the created world. We have a responsibility to act as stewards of Creation, but unfortunately, we often neglect the environment. Commercial and economic land development for housing can lead to deforestation, resulting in the loss of trees and entire forests. This can have a devastating impact on habitats and ecosystems, as trees play a crucial role in the natural environment, acting as natural barriers. Excessive deforestation can disrupt the balance of ecosystems, affecting the entire system. These issues are not unique to Hong Kong but are prevalent globally, particularly in developing countries.
The United Nations declared March 21 as the International Day of Forests in 2012, with the theme “Forests and Innovation: New Pathways for Sustainable Development.” The UN recommends organising events related to forests and trees, such as tree planting activities, thematic discussions, and art exhibitions to celebrate this day and raise public awareness of different types of forests, promoting human health and well-being.
According to the UN, the world loses 10 million hectares of trees annually due to logging, and 70 million hectares are at risk of wildfires. Developing innovative warning systems can prevent illegal logging and wildfires in natural areas.
Green plants play an important role in reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. They do this through photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide and water into nutrients and releasing oxygen. These are essential for the growth of both plants and animals.
The world is witnessing a continuous rise in global temperatures with an average increase of .20 Celsius each year since 1982. This has led to frequent occurrence of extreme weather events. Humanity needs to improve air quality, reduce pollutant emissions, and reforest barren lands. Reforestation is an effective method to slow down climate change. It promotes food supply and supports livelihoods, thereby contributing to societal stability.
The Church encourages people to participate in the Stations of the Cross during Lent. Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing has written a book called “Ecological Way of the Cross” which offers extensive reflections on the ecological crisis. It encourages integrating an ecological perspective while meditating on the suffering of Jesus. It focuses on the relationship between humans and all creation.
The Diocesan Catechetical Centre has developed teaching materials called “Children’s Eco Way of the Cross,” which aims to encourage children to actively respond to Pope Francis’s encyclical, Laudato Si’. Through these materials, children are taught to change their attitudes towards resources and to minimise harm to animals and plants. Additionally, the Diocesan Pastoral Commission for Integral Human Development has designated two Stations of the Cross routes for people to walk and meditate.
Let us journey together with the created world, providing nature with a healing space and creating a habitable living environment for future generations. SE
