Lenten Studies 2016. Caring for our Common Home

St Barnabas Anglican Church, Warrington

LENTEN STUDIES 2016

CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME

This course is a reflection on our Christian calling to care for God’s creation as both grateful recipients and responsible stewards.  It is based on Pope Francis’ Encyclical Letter on Ecology and Climate entitled Laudato Si’, released in June 2015.

“Laudato Si’” is the opening phrase (in Latin) of St Francis’ canticle “Hymn to the Sun”.  Copies of the English version of the encyclical are available from the Catholic Centre in the Octagon, for $17.50.  Participants in the course may find it helpful to have their own copy, but it is not essential as written notes will be provided.  In particular, background notes will be made available before the course starts, covering the introduction and chapter 1 of the encyclical.

COURSE OUTLINE

Session 1.        16 February.

Looks at some of the key biblical texts on creation and our special responsibility for its care.  Based on chapter 2 of the encyclical.

Session 2.        23 February.

Identifies the spiritual nature of the root causes of our ecological problems.  Based on chapter 3 of the encyclical.

Session 3.        1 March.

Advocates a new emphasis on understanding humanity as part of creation, rather than apart from it.  Based on chapter 4 of the encyclical.

Session 4.        8 March.

Addresses some practical questions of what can be done to achieve a sustainable environment.  Based on chapter 5 of the encyclical.

Session 5.        15 March.

Brings it all together by outlining a spirituality to nourish us in the struggle to preserve the environment for future generations.  Based on chapter 6 of the encyclical.

All sessions from 7.30-9.00pm in the Parish Lounge. All welcome.  No charge.

More information from Roger Barker.  465.7719. roger-patricia.barker@xtra.co.nz