On 1st September, in the gardens of the Pontifical residence at Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome, Pope Leo celebrated the Holy Mass for the Care of Creation, marking the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. In his homily, the Pope stated:
“As we look upon the birds of the air and the lilies of the field with wonder — so precious in the eyes of their Creator — we come to understand the greatness of God’s love for us. If the Lord does not fail to bestow such splendid beauty upon plants and animals and provide for all their needs, how much more attentive will he be to the needs of his beloved sons and daughters! … From contemplating creation and encountering its Creator, there arises an awareness of our particular place within God’s wondrous plan, and of the responsibility that we bear both personally and collectively for preserving the original harmony. Thus, as we become conscious of our shortcomings and failures, we can renew our commitment to restoring the relationships among all creatures according to the will of their Creator.”
Click here to read the full homily.
(Image: Barberini Gardens, Castel Gandolfo.)