Year 7 Religious Studies have been exploring stewardship as a Catholic Social Teaching, while also studying responsibilities and duties that we have as citizens in our country. There has been a keen exploration of environmental issues in Australia and overseas and how we can take action here at Eddies. Stewardship as a Catholic Social Teaching teaches us that from the moment of creation, we have been given the special responsibility to take care of God’s earth, including animals and the physical environment. Year 7 have also started to examine the themes of Pope Francis ‘Laudato Si’ which challenges all of humanity- not just those who call themselves Catholic or Christian- to advocate the environment. The Year 7 course also explores how environmental issues have an impact on humanity- with a focus on certain communities and groups. The work of organisations is also being studied as there are some brilliant initiatives done organisations such as Caritas and Catholic Earthcare. The boys are asked to consider what could be done at Eddies. We already have started a bottle recycling initiative which raises money for our charity focus each term, but there is still more to do. Our boys are passionate about safeguarding their future and protecting the planet for future generations. From a faith perspective, this passion comes from a place of obligation and duty as children of God. We look forward to seeing what initiatives the boys come up with as the term progresses, even if it is a matter of advocacy and awareness, we all have a role to play.
St Francis of Assisi had a passion for all living things and wrote the ‘Canticle of Creation’. This is a prayer and reflection that speaks of the creative spirit that is God and how all elements of creation are connected. This influenced the structure and themes of the encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ and captures the beauty of creation.
O Most High, all-powerful, good Lord God,
to you belong praise, glory,
honour and all blessing.
Be praised, my Lord, for all your creation
and especially for our Brother Sun,
who brings us the day and the light;
he is strong and shines magnificently.
O Lord, we think of you when we look at him.
Be praised, my Lord, for Sister Moon,
and for the stars
which you have set shining and lovely
in the heavens.
Be praised, my Lord,
for our Brothers Wind and Air
and every kind of weather
by which you, Lord,
uphold life in all your creatures.
Be praised, my Lord, for Sister Water,
who is very useful to us,
and humble and precious and pure.
Be praised, my Lord, for Brother Fire,
through whom you give us light in the darkness:
he is bright and lively and strong.
Be praised, my Lord,
for Sister Earth, our Mother,
who nourishes us and sustains us,
bringing forth
fruits and vegetables of many kinds
and flowers of many colours.
Be praised, my Lord,
for those who forgive for love of you;
and for those
who bear sickness and weakness
in peace and patience
– you will grant them a crown.
Be praised, my Lord, for our Sister Death,
whom we must all face.
I praise and bless you, Lord,
and I give thanks to you,
and I will serve you in all humility.
For a reflection version of the above prayer, click HERE
For the full Encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ click HERE.
For an animated summary of ‘Laudato Si’ click HERE.
Carmela Wilson
Head of Religious Education