Laudato Si’ was published on Pentecost Sunday, 24 May 2015. On 24 May 2025, we celebrate its 10th anniversary by dedicating the entire week to giving thanks to God for the gift of creation—our Common Home. We also express our gratitude for the legacy of the late Pope Francis, who dedicated his pontificate to “hear the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.”

Laudato Si’ Week offers us a special opportunity to reflect prayerfully on the core messages of the encyclical. It invites us to consider how these teachings can become second nature in our lives, and how we can advocate for both the earth and the poor.

This year, we also give thanks for the recent election of Pope Leo XIV. By choosing the name of the great Pope Leo XIII, the new Holy Father signals his intention to defend the marginalized in the 21st century, just as Pope Leo XIII did in the 19th century.

2025 also marks the 800th anniversary of the Canticle of the Creatures by St. Francis of Assisi. And so, we root this year’s Laudato Si’ Week celebration in the rich spirituality of St. Francis—the very inspiration behind Pope Francis’ name and vision.

This year’s theme is Peace with Creation, beautifully expressed in the following reflection:

“Our spirits yearn for the peace of connecting with the Creator. As we see the effects of the ecological disaster mounting around us, we know that prayer is an essential way to heal our world. A movement for prayer and contemplation in unity with all creation is growing around the world.

So what they all need is an ‘ecological conversion,’ whereby the effects of their encounter with Jesus Christ become evident in their relationship with the world around them.” (Laudato Si’, 217)

Resources for parishes and communities to participate in Laudato Si’ Week can be found at: https://laudatosiweek.org

Upcoming Events

Laudato Si’ Anniversary Week in New Plymouth

28 May at 6:00 PM – St Joseph Church
Interfaith Prayer on the Care of the Earth

31 May at 4:00 PM
Screening of The Letter: A Message for our Earth
Followed by group discussion and reflection

Ongoing
A weekly study group on Laudato Si’ will follow the film screening.

Contact: Helene Doyle – 022 109 0529

Laudato Si’ Anniversary Week in the Manawatu Region

Beginning 24 May
A special prayer or reflection will be shared daily with everyone on the Laudato Si’ email list.

28 May at 7:00 PM – Diocesan Centre
Laudato Si’ Evening: Screening of The Letter: A Message for our Earth
Followed by discussion and reflection

31 May – Habitat Restoration Day at Kopua Monastery
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Contact: Mary Eastham – [email protected] | 021 903 984