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In a letter commemorating the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical "Laudato Si'," U.S. bishops have called on young people to take a leading role in addressing the climate crisis. The original encyclical, published on May 24, 2015, urged action against what was described as a "throwaway culture" affecting the planet.
Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia and Bishop A. Elias Zaidan of Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon issued the joint letter on May 21. They expressed gratitude to young people for their commitment and called for renewed efforts to care for "our common home."
The bishops highlighted various environmental challenges: "Climate change and environmental degradation entrap many people in poverty," they wrote. They pointed out how these issues affect communities dependent on farming, fishing, and forestry both in the U.S. and globally, mentioning threats from unregulated mining activities that impact Indigenous Peoples.
They emphasized that failing to care for creation reflects a lack of understanding about human interconnectedness. The bishops asked, “So, what can we do?” and stressed the importance of hope in God and collaboration among individuals.
Referring to comments by Pope Leo XIV upon his introduction, they reminded readers: “We are all in the hands of God... united hand in hand with God and among ourselves.”
“Young people can lead the way as catalysts of hope,” they stated, encouraging youth involvement in creating lasting change.
The bishops acknowledged youth as essential links between God's vision for creation and present realities: “Do not doubt that you have the power to inspire and lead efforts to effect change locally and globally,” affirming their support for young people's endeavors.
