A Ray of Hope

Dear Partners in Green,

According to the College of Cardinals’ report, a document that offers profiles on dozens of papal candidates, Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, has been outspoken about the need for action to fight global warming. Environmentalists and climate leaders have praised his election, expecting that he will continue the environmental legacy left by Pope Francis, whom he had served as a senior adviser.

Manual Vidal*, global leader of climate and energy at the World Wildlife Fund, said Pope Leo’s closeness to Francis is evident: "His commitment has been expressed not only to the climate but also to the poor and migrants, which is good not only for the Church, but for humanity."

Vidal also stressed that the Catholic Church’s involvement in the climate fight is based on the Social Doctrine of the Church, a fundamental framework of social teachings. And that humans must engage in a relationship of reciprocity rather than tyranny.

Whatever your faith may be, or may not be, this may be good news for all of us, as Pope Leo may resurge our energy and dedication to living environmentally responsible lives, and to standing up and demanding to be heard when it comes to issues of environmental justice and climate- induced migration.

In a very dark time just a glimmer of light broke through. Pope Leo, described as an inspirational leader, may just be the man for this moment.

So, in the spirit of hope, continue to live environmentally responsible lives. Reduce, reuse, recycle, speak out, show up!

“Hope is the thing with feathers”
By Emily Dickinson

“Hope” is the thing with feathers –
That perches in the soul –
And sings the tune without the words –
And never stops – at all –
And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard –
And sore must be the storm –
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm –
I’ve heard it in the chillest land –
And on the strangest Sea –
Yet – never – in Extremity,
It asked a crumb – of me.

Thank you for being on this journey.

Wishing peace and health to you and your loved ones.

Till next time,
Beth