MANILA (SE): Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David emphasised the urgency of ecological conversion in the face of climate change and environmental degradation. In a message to kick off the 2025 Season of Creation, which runs from September 1 to October 4, CBCP News reported.
The head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines [CBCP] urged the faithful to embrace their role as stewards of the earth, calling care for creation a “moral and spiritual responsibility—a path of justice, peace, and love.”
Cardinal David noted that these global challenges disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable.
“We cannot ignore the grave threats facing our world today—climate change, environmental destruction, and the reckless exploitation of resources. These burdens fall most heavily on the poor and vulnerable,” the cardinal said.
In July, Pope Leo XIV approved a new Votive Mass for the Care of Creation to be included in the Roman Missal [Sunday Examiner, July 13].
The CBCP has resolved to celebrate this Mass on the first Sunday of September each year “so that more of the faithful may join in reflection and prayer for ecological conversion.”
Cardinal David urged all parishes, communities, and families to celebrate the Eucharist using the new formulary and to take concrete steps toward sustainable living.
“[Let us] protect forests, seas, and skies, reduce waste, and safeguard life for future generations,” he said, urging Catholics to incorporate environmental responsibility into daily life.
He also urged the faithful to live this Season of Creation with “faith and courage,” trusting that the Lord has entrusted humanity with the care of the Earth.
