Dear Parents and Carers of Good Samaritan,

This week we recognise and celebrate Laudato Si’. Laudato Si’ is the second encyclical of Pope Francis in which he calls us all to care for our common home. In this encyclical he reminds us of the dangers of consumerism, irresponsible development, environmental degradation and global warming. Pope Francis calls us to ‘take swift and global action’. 

This clip simply explains what Pope Francis’ speaks about and gives some simple ideas as to what we can engage in to make sure we are caring for our common home.

One of the goals of this week may be to consider how much you reuse something rather than immediately discarding it. Pope Francis teaches us that this can be an act of love which expresses our own dignity. We are invited to take ‘Head Heart and Hand’ actions this week.

Head: Assess where you have power or influence for procurement e.g., at work, school or in parish life. Research available ethical purchasing guides that address your regular purchases, for example food, clothing, and energy, and follow their advice.

Heart: Before purchasing anything, ask: Do I need this? Will this make me happy?

Whose lives will be impacted by this purchase? Where are there opportunities for me to make a change?

Hands: Actions could include reducing waste,  recycling, and adopting sustainable practices across your life e.g., using fair trade products, sustainable dietary habits, greater use of public  transport, walking and cycling, and avoiding single use items.

It is only when our children see us questioning our own actions that we can then expect them to understand why they should do the same.

Until next time, journeying together with Jesus,

Toni Sillis

Principal