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Publication Details
Jennings, A.
(2022).
Local Parish responses to the global Laudato Si’ socio-ecological agenda.
Nulungu Research Papers,.
Abstract
In this extraordinary time of multiple, interconnecting crises with compounded costs in social, economic, and environmental degradation, calls for transformative change are emerging from all levels – local to global. Ways people living in regional and remote areas of Australia can apply a global Christian agenda that pursues spiritual and ecological changes within their lives, their parishes and local community, are examined in this paper, the question explored is ‘How can people respond to global challenges and embrace ecological conversion within their local parishes and community?’ Consideration is grounded within Pope Francis’ encyclical (teaching letter) Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home. This socio-ecological treatise highlights the damage people are causing to the fabric of the planet, as well as recognising the extent of profound poverty globally, and how these impact humanities’ potential. To apply this awareness community development theory and practice is adopted, acknowledging community as the ‘home’ of regional people, parishes, and their broader ecosystem. The main body of this paper explores and applies practical theology as a relevant process that supports the advancement of creation-centred pathways for parishes as they embark on their ecological conversion journey, based on Laudato Si’. Case studies provided depict local people moving collectively from theory to practical application. The initial case studies, positioned in Broome in Western Australia, demonstrate where successful past ventures establish exemplars for future endeavours, before moving on to current active projects. Outcomes generated from these studies are in harmony with those expressed in Laudato Si’. This approach encourages parishes to review their historical and current activities to establish the groundwork to move forward, undertaking actions leading to a more ecologically sound future.
