The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan Releases New Environmental Publication
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan (CBCJ) has recently unveiled its latest publication titled “Behold, It Was Very Good—An Invitation to Integral Ecology,” marking a significant milestone since its previous release, “A Gaze Towards Life.”
Written by Mark Saludes for LiCAS News, this new document, launched on July 1, aims to tackle pressing environmental issues brought to light during Pope Francis’s 2019 visit to Japan under the theme “Protecting All Life.”
Archbishop Isao Kikuchi, President of the CBCJ, revealed that following the Papal Visit, the Japanese Bishops prioritized ecological concerns and established the Laudato Si Desk to further their commitment to “protect all life.”
At the core of this publication is the influence of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato si’, with Bishop Daisuke Narui providing essential guidance through the Laudato Si’ Desk in its creation.
Available for 800 yen in bookstores and on the CBCJ’s website, this publication is designed to educate and inspire action on environmental issues.
The book’s message is adapted from Catholic Church responses in Japan to the challenges posed by Laudato si’, addressing local issues like Minamata disease while broadening its scope to engage other religions and society at large.
Structured around the principles of Seeing, Discerning, and Acting, this book encourages a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our planet based on Church teachings.
Archbishop Mitsuo Takami emphasized the collective responsibility humanity has in appreciating and preserving the Earth as a divine gift.
The book’s transformative journey from despair to joy resonated with Chikako Hagiwara, who found a song of joy within its pages, while lay youth leader Naomi Uchiyama highlighted the importance of recognizing all creation as a gift from God.
Rooted in the belief of stewardship, the bishops’ initiative calls for a radical renewal of lifestyles across communities and sectors to address environmental crises and integrate faith-based values with social and environmental responsibilities.
As the Church in Japan takes a stand in the global ecological discourse, this publication serves as a beacon of inspiration for individuals and communities to take meaningful action towards a sustainable future.
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