Seamless Earth

Concerning our Common Home and the crisis of the earth, in Laudato Si, Pope Francis states, ‘a true ecological approach always becomes a social approach; it must integrate questions of justice in debates on the environment, so as to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.’  (LS49)  Our brothers and sisters from Central and South America have led us to realize there is a preferential option for the poor.  Coexisting with a preferential option for the poor, integral and not in conflict is a preferential option for the earth. 

Cardinal Bernadin coined the theology of a seamless garment of life, which provides great understanding for our response to the earth.  Over the earth, humanity and our common home, with all life within, we exist under this seamless garment.

A child of God can understand and act under this seamless garment, but the world of men does not. ‘It is remarkable how weak international political responses have been.  The failure of global summits on the environment make it plain that our politics are subject to technology and finance.' (LS54) 

Current trends in governments across the world show a deepening sinful response to environmental degradation.  While the degradation of the earth has been happening for 200 years due to our unfettered consumption and self-gratification, it is obvious now for any that can see - severe effects of climate change and biodiversity loss are already upon us.

Our response and our actions require a deep commitment by all, if we are to save our common home.  The faithful children of God must start immediately and be the leavening for those who do not yet understand.

Our response needs to be guided by a seamless garment of life with consideration of all peoples, the plants, animals, and biodiversity, because it is our common home.  Leaders and governments have the highest responsibility, but their lack of action or harmful actions, only means that each must move forward, sometime feeling alone, in faith and hope.  While we feel alone, we are not alone, because God is here with us.

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