Plastic free July - Keep ocean plastic free - Photo:bigstock.com
Caring for God’s creation is a priority focus of ministry for Columban missionaries. Plastic Free July is a time to take more care of our environment by joining millions of people worldwide in making commitments to limit the amount of single-use plastics in daily life. Pope Francis encourages the resolution and creativity of young people in their hopes for a healthier planet for all people and creation.
In his 2019 message ‘Christus Vivit: To young people and to the entire people of God,’ Pope Francis says: ‘Young people have so much strength; they are able to look ahead with hope.’ A year 9 student from Iona Presentation College in Perth prays: ‘Open our eyes, Lord, so that we can strive to maintain our beautiful home, this earth, with less plastic and more care and awareness. Grant us the hope that we can do this; that we can protect our environment, and that we can protect our future.’
Sr Caroline Vaitkunas RSM is a team member of the Columban Peace, Ecology & Justice office in Australia.
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