Integral ecology in the life of the family, a new Document to educate about the care of Creation and human life. This work is the fruit of the joint commitment of two Dicasteries of the Holy See, the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, to welcome and respond to the appeals of Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV to listen to the cry of the poor and the cry of the Earth and to act accordingly. This Document draws on the principles of the post-synodal Exhortation Amoris Laetitia and the teachings of the Encyclical Laudato si'. Theologians, counselors, and married couples also participated in its drafting, sharing their experiences and expertise.
Creation and family life are interconnected; therefore, families, which constitute society, can become the starting point for profound cultural change. They become a conduit for bottom-up renewal that positively influences the community and public policies. Adopting sustainable behaviors within the family can be the right path to address current environmental challenges and promote the integral development of each person. Integral ecology in the life of the family offers ideas and guidance for embarking on this path. Part I presents fundamental concepts based on Pope Francis's most significant writings. Part II contains thematic chapters that reflect seven objectives drawn from Laudato Si':
· Listening to the Cry of the Earth
· Listen to the Cry of the Poor and the Vulnerable
· Adopt and Promote Ecological Economics
· Adopt Ecological Lifestyles
· Integral Ecology and Education
· Ecological Spirituality in the Family
· Families Participating in Community Life
Each chapter is divided into four sections:
· Explanation of the topic
· One or more implications of the topic
· A list of questions for reflection and discussion
· A list of proposed actions
Although the book is dedicated principally to families, it regards everyone, as each person, in their own circumstances, can find advice and inspiration to help improve relationships and the environment, promoting a more equitable and sustainable world in which Creation and human dignity are defended and protected.