Celebrating the Season of Creation

STEWARDS OF OUR EARTH

All of God’s Creation

Social Justice Committee, Holy Cross Parish, Mt. Airy, September 7, 2025

Pope Leo XIV in his Message for the 10th World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation on September 1 invoked the image of the seed used by Jesus in proclaiming the Kingdom of God – the grain of wheat that must die in order to bear fruit (Jn 12:24). In Christ, we too are seeds, and indeed, “seeds of peace and hope.” He exhorts us that now is the time to follow words with deeds.

“Environmental justice – implicitly proclaimed by the prophets – can no longer be regarded as an abstract concept or a distant goal. It is an urgent need that involves much more than simply protecting the environment. For it is a matter of justice – social, economic, and human. For believers it is also a duty born of faith, since the universe reflects the face of Jesus Christ, in whom all things were created and redeemed. In a world where the most vulnerable of our brothers and sisters are the first to suffer the devastating effects of climate change, deforestation and pollution, care for creation becomes an expression of our faith and humanity.” (From the Vatican, 30 June 2025)

“Each year from September 1 to October 4, the Christian family unites for this worldwide celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home. It is a special season where we celebrate God as Creator and acknowledge Creation as the divine continuing act that summons us as collaborators to love and care for the gift of all that is created. As followers of Christ from around the globe, we share a common call to care for Creation. We are co- creatures and part of all that God has made. Our well-being is interwoven with the well-being of the Earth.” (Season of Creation Ecumenical Steering Committee Members, Catholic Climate Covenant)

“Let us remember that humanity was originally called to tend a garden. Through this year’s Season of Creation, we will reflect on the connection between caring for creation and fostering peace.”  (Catholic Climate Covenant)

“The Season of Creation is more than liturgy—it’s a journey of transformation. Let’s answer this call together. May our prayers and actions help the Spirit make the desert bloom, and may we truly be ‘seeds of peace and hope’ for our world.” (Christina Leaño, Associate Director, Laudato Si' Movement, 8/29/25)

Thank you for joining us this weekend as we celebrate the season of creation at Holy Cross with prayer, music, and intentions for peace.

Comments on this column may be directed to the Social Justice Committee at socialjustice@holycrossphl.org. Click here for column archive.