On October 21, 2025, a webinar was held to present the document “Catholic Approaches to Mining: A Framework for Reflection, Planning and Action.” This document outlines Christian perspectives on mining, with a particular focus on ethical principles, environmental protection, sustainability, and social responsibility.
The webinar was an opportunity to learn more about the important work that has emerged from the collaboration between CPN, LSRI, the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame, part of the Keough School of Global Affairs, the Holy See's Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, and Caritas Internationalis. It is the result of a long process of dialogue between ecclesial entities and communities directly involved in the areas affected by mining activities. This sector often weighs heavily on local communities and the environment, causing ecological degradation, human rights violations, and the breakdown of social fabric. The Church therefore wanted to stand alongside the affected populations to promote justice, dignity, and hope.
This need gave rise to the document “A Framework for Reflection, Planning and Action”, a guide designed to support bishops, pastoral workers, and Catholic organizations in responding with greater awareness and effectiveness to issues related to mining. The document is both a collection of best practices and a concrete proposal for action based on a process of observation, reflection, and action.
The result of a year-long consultation process defines the complexity of the mining sector in the region, its environmental impact, and the economic, legal, and political dynamics involved. In addition, the oil and gas sectors are also mentioned, highlighting the structural similarities between these industries and the urgency of an integrated pastoral approach. The document, therefore, is intended to be a concrete sign of the Church's activity for the “care of our common home”, called to be a prophetic voice and a presence of solidarity, supporting local communities.
The document “Catholic Approaches to Mining” was the focus of the webinar, which emphasized sharing and the inclusion of different voices.
"There is still much to be done so that each local Church can accompany the human development of their people where mining is planned, going on, or has ceased. As the efforts continue, our Dicastery remains ready to listen, encourage, advise." H.E. Card. Michael Czerny
Speakers at the event:
Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
Elena Sofia Fanciulli, Caritas Internationalis
Jing Rey Henderson, Caritas Philippines
Liliana Zamudio Vaquiro, Caritas Colombia
Rev. Rigobert Minani, SJ, Centre d'Etudes pour l'Action Sociale (DRC)
Séverine Deneulin, Laudato Si' Research Institute, Campion Hall, University of Oxford
Caesar A. Montevecchio (moderator), Catholic Peacebuilding Network, Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame