On the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, October 4, 2023, the FCJ Centre hosted the second screening of the thought-provoking movie entitled "The Letter: A Message for our Earth."
The event aimed to shed light on the growing normalization of climate change and its global impact. This is also a fitting culmination of the Season of Creation for the FCJ Centre.
In 2015, Pope Francis issued "Laudato Si'," a letter directed to all people of this planet. This significant statement transcends religious boundaries, addressing critical environmental and social issues that concern us all.
The film revolves around the impacts of climate change on four (4) people across the world. From rainforest degradation in the Amazon, the unceasing sea water level rising in Senegal, to the gradual coral depletion due to an overwhelming heat wave in Hawaii, up to the impact that the younger generations are experiencing now and towards the future. These people have become victims and nature guardians in their own right towards the effects of climate change and social injustice. These people came from different religious identities, yet the people engaged these differences as a way forward towards a better future.
After the screening, attendees engaged in a lively discussion, sharing their thoughts and emotions inspired by the film. The event culminated in a reflection led by Sr. Ita Connery fcJ and Rev. Tony Snow, reinforcing the film's impactful message and suggesting reflection questions along with some small, actionable steps.
Lastly, the movie entails a transformative experience. Pope Francis's call to environmental stewardship transcends across religious and cultural boundaries, urging all of us to recognize the seriousness of our shared responsibility to take care of our home. He has also released "Laudate Deum" (Praise God!), his new Apostolic Exhortation. This document is intended to follow up on his 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si. It serves as his urgent call to address the climate crisis, acknowledging that time is running out.
The FCJ Centre stands as a Centre of hope, a space that strives to build a sustainable future for all.
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