Of the papacy to campaign for change

a responsibility to live more simply.

The encyclical is carefully timed to have an impact in the short term as well as contributing to Catholic teaching in the long term. In December a United Nations Summit in Paris will aim to secure a new global deal to tackle climate change. This will be a vital step in setting all nations on a course to keep global temperatures from rising by more than 1.5C. The summit must also result in poorer countries getting help to adapt to the climate challenges they face and enable them to develop on a low-carbon path.

The Catholic bishops of Scotland have been quick to respond positively to Pope Francis’ call. Archbishop Philip Tartaglia wrote on the day of its publication: “The encyclical – the highest form of papal teaching – puts care for the planet and environment in a moral context. ‘For human beings…to destroy the biological diversity… by causing changes in its climate… to contaminate the earth’s waters, its land, its air, and its life – these are sins’. From now on, our examination of conscience needs to include these things too.

“The encyclical is capable of really changing minds and hearts and lifestyles. I encourage everyone to pray over it, read it, ponder it, discuss it and put it into practice. It could – literally – help to save the world.”

Pope Francis’ call to action is challenging and direct, but it is founded on joy and wonder in the world, and the hope that, working and talking together, we can make the changes we need. Reinvigorated, SCIAF will be joining people of goodwill worldwide to urge Scottish, UK and global leaders to ensure that every country does its bit to tackle climate change and end the scourge of global poverty.

lphilippa Bonella is head of communications and education at the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund www.sciaf.org.uk www.bcos.org.uk