The Down and Connor Catholic Diocese Laudato Si’ Group is holding an important conference commemorating the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’s landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’.
This encyclical has gained universal relevance, resonating with people of all faiths and none. Its message is especially poignant as we reflect on Pope Francis’s legacy following his recent death, particularly his powerful call to ecological conversion.
Event Details:
Title: Raising Hope – Living Laudato Si’
Date: Sunday, 25th May 2025, Time: 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Location: Clonard Monastery, Belfast
This significant anniversary of Laudato Si’
Laudato Si’ is an encyclical written by Pope Francis and published in May 2015. Its title, translated from Italian, means “Praise be to You,” a reference to St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures. This encyclical focuses on the care of the environment, addressing the ecological crisis and calling for action to combat climate change, environmental degradation, and social injustices. Pope Francis emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation and critiques consumerism, irresponsible development, and the disregard for nature. It is one of the most influential religious documents on environmental ethics.
• Read Laudato Si’ »
• Find out about the Laudato Si’ Movement »
provides a crucial opportunity to revisit the encyclical’s profound message and explore practical ways of responding to its urgent call for care for our common home. It’s also a time to honor Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and social justice.
The conference will feature a keynote address from Professor John Barry, QUB, a distinguished Professor of Green Political Economy and Co-Director of the Centre for Sustainability, Equality and Climate Action. We will also hear contributions from representatives of Eco Congregation Ireland (Anna Byrne DC), Trócaire (Nick Hanrahan), Laudato Si’ Animator (Finbarr Keaveney), and A Rocha
A Rocha is an international Christian organization focused on environmental conservation. Its name comes from the Portuguese word for “the rock.” Founded in 1983 in Portugal, A Rocha works to promote biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and foster sustainability, often working closely with local communities. The organization integrates faith with environmental stewardship, emphasizing creation care from a Christian perspective. A Rocha operates in multiple countries, engaging in practical conservation projects, scientific research, environmental education, and community-based initiatives. (Bertie Stirling).
Additional Highlights:
The event will also host a display of the ‘Care for our Common Home’ photographic exhibition by Westcourt Camera Club, visually highlighting the beauty and fragility of our planet.
This conference offers a valuable opportunity to engage with key figures and organizations working on environmental issues from a faith-based perspective, particularly in the context of the 10th anniversary of the influential Laudato Si’ encyclical and in the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, whose vision shaped so much of this important discussion. It promises to be a space for dialogue, reflection, and inspiration for action.
This conference is of significant interest to anyone concerned with the growing importance of environmental awareness and the enduring influence of Pope Francis’s teachings.
You are warmly invited to attend and to share the invitation through your networks.