On May 24, 2015, Pope Francis signed Laudato Si’, an encyclical letter written by him on the idea of “caring for our common home”, with the intent of creating a movement to further environmental progress around the world.
Laudato Si’ means “praise be to you” in Latin, and as suggested by the name, together both the movement and letter merge ideas foundational to religion and environmentalism.
In keeping with the movement, Loretto Academy dedicated a day of instruction, on March 6, 2024, to partake in activities based on Laudato Si’.
These activities planted a seed in all Angels to promote a culture of care and unity for the future of the planet.
“The Letter”
Students started off the day by watching “The Letter: A Message for our Earth,” a documentary that showcases a need for change within our planet, as expressed by leaders on the frontline who meet with Pope Francis to share their experiences.
The Pope calls on four “voices”: The Voice of the Poor, the Indigenous, the Youth, and Wildlife; voices that are dismissed by society.
The film focuses on these individuals and how each of them is affected by climate change and a culture of consumerism.
Their distinct and unique experiences provided students and faculty with insight and a different perspective on the varying sectors of the world.
Creating an “Action Plan”
“The Letter” created a foundation for students to create “Action Plans” of their own to not only transform the campus with the ideas presented to them but to extend to the community as well.
Loretto senior, Monica Annabi said, “It [The “Action Plan”] was very collaborative and I enjoyed how interactive the planning was.
Seeing everyone contributing their ideas and doing the small things was very meaningful.”
Following the making of the “Action Plans,” students in middle and high school presented their posters in the gym at the end of the day to conclude a day of activities.
Each presentation served as a means to warn Loretto of the environmental dangers people create through habits but also provided solutions to help contribute to a healthier planet.
Loretto Middle School religion teacher and an organizer of Laudato Si’ Day, Ms. Crow said, “After watching “The Letter”, I felt a connection with the voices and a sense of excitement for what we can do to help.
It is the little things we do as a community that make the biggest impact.
Seeing students making posters and taking the first steps in the process of becoming a Laudato Si’ school was powerful.
With time, I hope Loretto becomes a model for the Catholic community for starting these things.”
The Takeaway
Even though Laudato Si’ Day at Loretto only spanned several hours, the impact and takeaways from the presentations and activities will last for years to come.
Students can now participate in shaping the future of our planet by utilizing the knowledge and resources that Laudato Si’ Day bestowed upon them.
“Praise be”, the message at the center of Laudato Si’, will carry more importance after the community-oriented activities Angels at Loretto had the opportunity to bond over.
