Pope Leo XIV: Creation Is a Gift, Not a Battleground
As the Church prepares to celebrate the Tenth World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation on 1 September 2025, Pope Leo XIV invites us to see the Earth not as a battleground for resources, but as God’s precious gift entrusted to our care.
In his message titled “Seeds of Peace and Hope”, released on 2 July, the Pope echoes the vision of Laudato si’, reminding us that environmental and social justice are not separate concerns—they are deeply connected. He warns that greed, inequality, and exploitation are driving the destruction of both people and the planet, especially harming the poor and indigenous communities.
Pope Leo laments that creation has become a “bargaining chip,” where land, water, and life itself are sacrificed for profit and power. Instead, we are called to “till and keep” the Earth with care and reverence.
He reminds us that caring for creation is a matter of faith. The universe reflects the face of Christ, and to protect it is to honour our Creator.
Pointing to projects like Borgo Laudato Si’, the Pope encourages us to plant “seeds of justice” that will one day bear the fruits of peace and renewal. This journey takes time, but with love, cooperation, and trust in God, it is possible.
He concludes with a prayer that the Spirit may renew the Earth and guide us along the path of integral ecology—a path of hope for all.
Read the full message here: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/messages/creation/documents/20250630-messaggio-giornata-curacreato.html