In 2015, Pope Francis released a powerful and deeply moving encyclical titled Laudato Si’, meaning “Praise be to You”, echoing the words of Saint Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures. This document calls upon all people - regardless of faith or background—to reflect on our relationship with creation and to take meaningful action to care for the Earth, our common home.
“Praise be to you, my Lord, through our Sister, Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us.”
– Saint Francis of Assisi, quoted in Laudato Si’
Through Laudato Si’, Pope Francis emphasises that caring for the environment is not just an ecological issue - it is a moral and spiritual responsibility. He reminds us that the Earth is a gift from God, entrusted to our care, and that how we treat our planet reflects how we treat one another, especially the poor and vulnerable who are most affected by environmental degradation.
At Gumburu Environmental Education Centre, this message forms the heart of our mission. We strive to foster a deep, respectful connection between people and the natural world - encouraging reflection, responsibility, and action.
To explore the full encyclical and its teachings on ecological conversion, climate justice, and sustainable living, you can read the document in full on the Vatican website.
