MANILA (SE): In a pastoral letter, the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) issued a strong appeal for climate action, urging Churches in the region to respond to the ecological crisis with courage and determination, CBCP News reported.
The letter, signed by FABC president, Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao; vice president, Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David; and secretary general Isao Cardinal Kikuchi, called for urgent action for at least four key areas: mitigation, adaptation, legislation, and finance.
“Hope compels us to action,” the bishops wrote. “As local Churches in Asia, we must rise to meet this moment with courage and determination.”
The letter highlights pressing environmental challenges in the region, including deforestation, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events, which disproportionately impact the region’s poorest communities.
CBCP News reported that the message outlined a faith-driven response advocating for stronger environmental policies, sustainable finance solutions, and grassroots initiatives like reforestation and youth-led ecological ministries. The bishops emphasised the importance of Catholic leaders and laypeople actively engaging in climate advocacy, especially as we approach COP 30, the United Nations climate summit which takes place in Brazil later this year.
“As Christians, we must walk alongside our neighbour religions in this shared advocacy for the care of our common home,” the letter said.
According to CBCP News, the FABC’s appeal is in line with the Vatican’s broader efforts to promote ecological conversion, especially during the Jubilee Year of Hope in 2025.
“In this Jubilee Year, we must also advocate for debt relief, recognizing that debt traps prevent many nations from effectively addressing the climate crisis,” the bishops said.
In addition to advocating for debt relief, the letter calls for a complete overhaul of the international lending system to foster economic justice. It warns against financial structures that perpetuate dependency and hinder sustainable development in the Global South.
The letter from the FABC was also issued to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on caring for creation.
The bishops encouraged dioceses across Asia to participate in the annual Season of Creation from September 1 to October 4. They emphasised the importance of incorporating environmental education, sustainable practices, and spiritual renewal into their ministries during this time.
“We must not let fear or apathy paralyse us,” the bishops said. “Instead, Let us walk the Pilgrimage of Hope together, responding with faith and courage.
