Okay so I’ve finished reading Pope Francis’ Laudato Si. Many articles have already described it – and I gave the background on it here. So instead of explaining the main points of the encyclical, I thought I would just give my thoughts on it.

I think it’s a great document. It shows the pope’s consistency in living out his message of reaching out to the poor and self-sacrifice. The encyclical also shows that Pope Francis has considered his theology from all angles. And that he has developed a way of living that is in-line with the Gospel.

But, while I think Laudato Si is a great blueprint, I don’t know if one is able to live it out on a grand scale – at least in the short-term. For the pope’s ideas to become reality, governments need to get involved. And to be honest, I’m not sure that’s workable. I know Pope Francis is trying to work with the United Nations on enacting better environmental regulations. I applaud him for that. Yet with its past record, I just don’t have much confidence in the UN. I don’t think its member nations could reach an agreement to make Pope Francis’ ideas to become reality.

Make the Small Sacrifices

What I think may be more workable is each Christian living out small sacrifices in the heart of every day. We should each try to practice a little more self-sacrifice. Giving up luxuries, consuming less food and avoiding associated luxuries whenever possible.

Now I want to be clear that I’m not suggesting that everyone give up cars or stop travelling and wear the same clothes until they dissolve. That’s not compatible with the state in life which most people live in. But, we each can make a few small cutbacks. Little things that we can do without. And we can direct those small sacrifices towards things that help us live better with God, other people and creation. Those sacrifices can mean choosing a green alternative. We can also take the money we save and directing it towards an environmental charity.

In line with this, I’d like you to remember Pope Francis’ second prayer at the end of the encyclical:

A Christian prayer in union with creation

Father, we praise you with all your creatures.

They came forth from your all-powerful hand;

they are yours, filled with your presence and your tender love.

Praise be to you!

Son of God, Jesus,

through you all things were made.

You were formed in the womb of Mary our Mother,

you became part of this earth,

and you gazed upon this world with human eyes.

Today you are alive in every creature

in your risen glory.

Praise be to you!