Laudato Si’ Week

In 2024, Laudato Si’ Week commemorates the 9th anniversary of the publication of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ in response to the ecological crisis. Since then, Catholics around the world, in parishes and small groups, have been working together to promote sustainable development.

The theme “Seeds of Hope” is accompanied by an inspiring quotation from Laudate Deum: There are no lasting changes without cultural changes … and there are no cultural changes without personal changes” (LD 70). It’s a direct invitation to “personal and cultural transformation” in the face of the ecological and climatic crises affecting every continent.

As in previous years, the aim of this week is to encourage people to reflect on their own or in small groups, to deepen their commitments, share their success stories and develop new ways of doing things. A celebration guide proposes various actions to encourage ecological conversion, promote sustainable approaches to food, means of transport and more.

In addition to the activities organized in parishes and within numerous organizations, people can explore at their own pace the varied documentation on the subject, including the film The Letter. This film highlights the story of four “social poets” invited to travel to Rome to meet Pope Francis. It is hoped that more screenings of this film will be held during the week of activities to fuel discussions and participate in the broad movement of awareness and action.

The celebration guide is available in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese.

“I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affects us all.” – Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, 14