Pope Leo to Hold Mass for Creation at Castel Gandolfo
In the Pontifical Gardens of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo will celebrate Mass for the World Day of Prayer for Creation on September 1st. This event, announced in a joint statement by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Hu…
In the Pontifical Gardens of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo will celebrate Mass for the World Day of Prayer for Creation on September 1st. This event, announced in a joint statement by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and the Laudato Si’ Centre for Higher Education, aims to highlight the importance of caring for the environment.
The Mass will take place in the Laudato Si’ Garden and marks the annual World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, serving as the opening for the Season of Creation. This ecumenical period is dedicated to prayer and active commitment to safeguarding the planet and will conclude on October 4, coinciding with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, as the Church commemorates the 800th anniversary of his passing.
During this season, the Church, along with other Christian communities, is encouraged to renew their dedication to creation through acts of prayer, conversion, and stewardship. On the designated date, the Pope will preside over a special Mass for the Care of Creation, developed by various dicasteries, including those for Promoting Integral Human Development, Divine Worship, the Doctrine of the Faith, and Promoting Christian Unity.
Cardinal Michael Czerny, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, emphasized the significance of celebrating the Eucharist within a garden, stating, "Every gift generates a responsibility." He elaborated on the concept that faith teaches the recognition of creation as a divine gift that demands gratitude and care. "Caring for creation means caring for life, for people—especially the most vulnerable—and for future generations," Cardinal Czerny stated.
Further reflections by Cardinal Fabio Baggio, Director General of the Laudato Si’ Centre for Higher Education, highlighted the link between safeguarding creation and promoting human dignity, asserting that both are integral to the Church's mission. He noted that the act of safeguarding our common home reflects loving one's neighbor, particularly those impacted by environmental degradation and poverty. Cardinal Baggio remarked, "Faith reminds us that we cannot love God without caring for what He has created and those He has entrusted to us."
