The Season of Creation is an annual Christian celebration that invites us to praise God for the gift of Creation, reflect on our role as stewards, and intensify our efforts to care for our common home. This season begins on September 1, the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, and ends on October 4, the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Ecology.
The Ecumenical Steering Committee has given us the theme for the annual celebration of this season 'To hope and act with Creation' - which is inspired by the Scripture passage Romans 8:19-25. We are going through an unprecedented environ- mental crisis, causing many to despair and suffer from eco-anxiety. As people of faith, we respond by offering hope - a hope that is inspired by the life-giving presence of God and the renewing power of Christ's Resurrection. Our hope should show forth in concrete actions of prayer and preaching, service and solidarity.
I encourage all our parishes to celebrate the Season of Creation in a meaningful manner. The Archdiocesan Office for Envi- ronment has organised a number of events, the details of which are mentioned in The Examiner. May this celebration help deepen our gratitude to the Creator and intensify our commitment to be responsible stewards of the gift entrusted to us.
+Oswald Cardinal Gracias
Archbishop of Bombay
August 24, 2024