Vincent OBANIYI, Communication Officer, Catholic Diocese of Oyo

 

Every September, the Catholic Church joins the global community in observing the Season of Creation—a sacred period dedicated to prayer, reflection, and concrete action for the care of our common home. This year’s commemoration once again reminds the faithful that creation is not merely a resource to be exploited, but a precious gift entrusted to humanity by God for responsible stewardship.

 

In the words of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’, “The earth herself, burdened and laid waste, is among the most abandoned and maltreated of our poor.” These words echo with urgency today as we witness the visible effects of climate change, deforestation, flooding, desertification, pollution, and the careless exploitation of natural resources. These are no longer distant realities—they are already disrupting the lives of families, communities, and nations, especially the poor and the vulnerable.

 

For us as Catholics, caring for creation is not simply an environmental agenda; it is a spiritual mission and a moral responsibility. From the very beginning of creation, God entrusted humankind with the duty of stewardship: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15). To neglect or destroy creation is to neglect this divine command. To protect it is to honor the Creator and to safeguard the dignity of every human life.

 

This season calls us not only to prayer but also to conversion of heart. It challenges us to reflect deeply: How do our lifestyles, choices, and habits affect the environment? Do we consume responsibly, or do we live in wastefulness? Do we treat creation as sacred, or do we reduce it to something disposable?

 

In our Dioceses and Parishes, the faithful are encouraged to take concrete steps—reducing waste, avoiding the reckless use of plastics, conserving energy and water, planting trees, supporting clean energy initiatives, and raising awareness in our families and schools. These small but meaningful actions, when multiplied across the Church, can become a powerful witness to the Gospel of life and care.

 

The Season of Creation is also a moment of solidarity with the poor. Those who suffer most from environmental harm are often those who contributed least to it. By caring for creation, we stand with the marginalized, protect future generations, and proclaim that every life matters before God.

 

As the Catholic world marks this sacred time, let us embrace our role as stewards, not exploiters of creation. Let us see in every tree, every river, every bird, and every human face the reflection of God’s beauty. Let our actions today speak of hope for tomorrow, ensuring that this earth—our common home—remains a place of life, joy, and harmony.

 

In the words of the psalmist: “The earth is the Lord’s and all it holds, the world and those who dwell in it” (Psalm 24:1). May this truth inspire us to rise together in prayer and in action.

 

 Prayer for Creation

Creator God, we thank You for the gift of the earth, our common home. Forgive us for the times we have wounded it by our selfishness and neglect. Renew our hearts with love for creation, that we may be faithful stewards of all You have made. Bless our efforts to protect the environment, and guide us to live in harmony with one another and with nature. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.