(ANS – Roma) – The latest issue of FLASH – the animation notes offered by the Youth Ministry Sector – published this September, during the Season of Creation, appropriately focuses on the theme of integral ecology. Titled Reflections in the light of Pope Francis’ historic encyclical Laudato Si’, the document begins with a presentation on the concept of integral ecology as proposed by Laudato Si’, which highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of all creatures. It reminds us that “a true ecological approach always becomes a social approach; it must integrate questions of justice in debates on the environment, so as to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor” (LS 49).
The next section of the document focuses on our Salesian commitment to integral ecology, and presents the reflections and guidelines offered by the past three General Chapters. General Chapter 29 emphasized that “Integral ecology emerges as a privileged field of educational and pastoral work” (GC29: 64), and hence recommended that “every province promote formation in integral ecology and ecological education of young people” (GC29:69).
The third section of the FLASH offers a reflection on Salesian youth ecological spirituality. According to the Salesian Youth Ministry Frame of Reference, our Salesian Youth Spirituality invites young people to encounter God in the concreteness of their lives, to cultivate joy and optimism, to grow in personal friendship with Jesus, to have a sense of Church and community, and to engage in responsible service. Laudato Si’ complements and deepens this vision by calling for an ecological spirituality marked by gratitude, responsibility, and care for our common home. Considered together, they form a coherent and contemporary spiritual pathway for all young people today.
The fourth section of the document discusses practical ways in which the ecological consciousness and commitment of young people can be developed in the various youth ministry settings. Through our engagement with young people across the various Salesian youth ministry settings, we can foster an eco-spirituality that inspires a deep appreciation for and commitment to God’s creation; we can educate them to a clear understanding of integral ecology and the ecological challenges of our time; and we can facilitate their participation in relevant, creative, and courageous initiatives that protect the earth and promote a just and sustainable future.
The fifth and final section of this FLASH presents the Don Bosco Green Alliance” (DBGA) as the global platform within the Youth Ministry Sector that brings together the diverse ecological initiatives, environmental programmes, and sustainability efforts undertaken by Salesian communities, institutions, and organisations throughout the world. DBGA provides a common framework through which the numerous ecological initiatives carried out in different educational, pastoral, cultural and social contexts can be connected, strengthened, and enriched. This coordinated approach enables the Salesian Congregation to respond more effectively to contemporary ecological challenges.
Published during the Season of Creation, these animation notes are very useful for all Salesian communities, as they offer both, a theoretical and practical pathway towards living integral ecology.
This issue of FLASH can be downloaded here in different languages.
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