JOHN’S CORNER: Papal Encyclical by Pope Francis 2015
by John Ferguson
A few weeks ago the Vatican released Pope Francis Encyclical Letter on the environment written to everyone living on this planet. It was a 68 page report that consists of 216 points broken down into six chapters that cover almost ever environmental and ecological issue facing society today and what God’s word has to say about them. A range of topics from the lack of fresh drinking water, loss of biodiversity, decline in quality of human life, global inequality, etc. all caused by human mismanagement of the Earth’s resources are covered.
The Pope addresses issues on human health from the damage done by toxic chemical pesticides and herbicides to those issues around global warming, and dangers of GMO’s. The Pope very clearly defines the issue, offers what scripture has to say on the subject and gives suggestion on what to do on solving many of these issues.
It was a very accurate and refreshing and easy to read report for all of us concerned about the future of our country and the world. This is a paper that every person (especially gardeners) needs to read and understand, so we can be part of the solution and not part of the problem.
A fact that I found very interesting is that Pope Francis did his graduate work in chemistry and worked as research chemist before entering ministry. As a result Pope Francis offers his perspective as both a scientist and a minister.
An English translation of the paper can be found at: http://m.vatican.va/content/francescomobile/en/encyclicals/documents/papafrancesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html
