Joseph Bonasia
Pope Leo XIV’s recent remarks on climate change have sparked a wave of criticism from MAGA commentators, who have branded him a “woke” pope. This reaction followed the pope’s blessing of a block of melting Greenland ice during the “Raising Hope” Conference, marking the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home.” Read more here.
Amid growing concerns about the planet’s condition and U.S. environmental policies, Pope Leo’s actions are seen by some as a necessary call to action. “Laudato Si’,” the first papal encyclical focused on environmental issues, connects ecological challenges with social justice and economic inequality, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these issues.
In his address, Pope Leo underscored the ongoing relevance of the challenges outlined in “Laudato Si’,” stating, “Some have chosen to deride the increasingly evident signs of climate change, to ridicule those who speak of global warming.” He further elaborated that these challenges demand a spiritual conversion, highlighting their profound social and political implications.
The reaction from MAGA supporters highlights the contentious nature of environmental issues in today’s sociopolitical landscape. Yet, the concerns raised in “Laudato Si’” are not exclusive to what critics call “woke” popes.
In fact, Pope Benedict, often referred to as the first “Green Pope,” was instrumental in bringing environmental issues to the fore within the Vatican. He installed approximately 2,400 solar panels at the Vatican, underscoring the importance of ecological stewardship. His insights on environmental crises emphasized the need for systemic economic reforms to address environmental degradation.
Pope Francis’ “Laudato Si’” frequently references Pope Benedict’s writings, acknowledging his predecessor’s contributions to eco-theology. Benedict’s ideas laid the groundwork for the themes explored in the encyclical, which were later expanded upon by Pope Francis.
Moreover, Pope John Paul II addressed ecological issues as early as 1990, long before environmental care became a divisive topic in American culture. He warned against immediate consumption-driven interaction with the environment, urging a thoughtful approach to ecological stewardship.
Even earlier, Pope Paul VI cautioned against the reckless exploitation of nature, advocating for a significant shift in humanity’s approach to the environment.
These papal teachings, which challenge the MAGA perspective, are often dismissed by critics who similarly reject scientific consensus on climate change. Nonetheless, Pope Leo’s message during the “Raising Hope” Conference urged individuals to advocate for stronger governmental climate actions.
For many, Pope Leo’s American heritage and his emphasis on the spiritual obligation to combat climate change offer hope. His actions signal a growing focus on environmental issues within the Catholic Church, which boasts a membership of 53 million in the U.S. and 1.4 billion globally.
As he blessed the melting ice, Pope Leo prayed, “Lord of life, bless this water. May it awaken our hearts, cleanse our indifference, soothe our grief, and renew our hope.” Learn more about the conference here.
Joseph Bonasia is a founding board member of the SWFL RESET Center.
Original Story at www.theinvadingsea.com