“We all share a common vocation to be good stewards of God’s creation. In the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we give thanks to God for the gift of creation and, in its beauty, see a sign of God’s creativity and presence in our midst. Through this awareness, we are reminded, yet again, of Our Lord’s infinite love for us,” said Bishop Burbidge. “There are many good efforts taking place throughout our diocese that help care for and protect God’s creation. We are pursuing many opportunities to lower energy consumption, reduce emissions, and improve the quality of air and light in our buildings. As stewards of the natural world, may we join with renewed intention in ensuring all people have the resources necessary to fulfill their God-given purpose.”
What: “Why Should I Care for Our Common Home,” Conference on Environmental Protection
When: 5 p.m. Mass, Celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge;
6 p.m. Dinner
6:45 p.m. Keynote with Dan Misleh. Panel to follow.
Where: Nativity Catholic Church; 6400 Nativity Ln. Burke, VA 22015
(The Mass will be available for viewing via live stream at https://www.youtube.com/c/NativityParishBurke. The Conference will be available via live stream on the diocesan YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvVVW22dci_D4ZIb5RiKtdw)
Registration is Still Open:
Register at https://careforourcommonhome.eventbrite.com.
The panel will discuss steps the Diocese is taking to increase sustainable practices in its parishes and teach care for all creation in its schools, and practical ways individuals can protect the environment. Panelists include Andrew Shulman, Director of the Diocese of Arlington’s Office of Planning, Construction and Facilities, Lonnell Battle, Assistant Principal for Academics, Bishop Ireton High School, and Meghan Goodwin, Associate Director of Government Relations, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
This conference is in response to Pope Francis’ call to care for the whole human family and all of creation as laid out in his encyclical Laudato Si′: On Care for Our Common Home. The evening will launch a seven-year effort to teach and implement this encyclical throughout the diocese.
For additional information on the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, visit arlingtondiocese.org.