Page 34 - Supplemento 2-2016 (ENG)

h.e. mons. silvano maria tomasi

of peace, most of all in those sectors where the action of a single State proves
to be inadequate. In this regard, on the world stage, “Laudato Si” states that we
are not in possession yet of the culture necessary to confront this crisis: we need
to build a leadership that can point the way, trying to respond to the needs of
current generations, including all, without compromising future generations.

It’s worth noting the weakness of the reaction from international politics. The
subordination of politics to technology and finance is demonstrated by the failure
of international summits on the environment. There are too many particular inte-
rests and, very easily, immediate economic interests manage to prevail on the com-
mon good and to manipulate information in order to protect their projects.

In this context, which weakens the institutions and makes it improbable to
achieve the universal destination of goods, the Church feels it imperative to reaf-
firm the dignity of the human person, the inalienable dignity of each person and
the implications of such dignity. For the Church a person is not an anonymous ele-
ment in a mass: it is rather an intrinsically social being, made to live in relationship
inside the human family. Therefore this dignity of the human person is what must
be supported and placed at the centre of the debate, even as regards ecology.

The Popes call upon us to consider and adopt the paradigm of integral
ecology to which the 4th chapter of “Laudato Si” is dedicated. For its analysis
and its action this integral ecology encompasses also human grammar and
human ecology i.e. an anthropology that is open to transcendence. A few weeks
ago in New York, we witnessed the very significant signing of the Paris agree-
ment on climate. Initiatives reflecting on biodiversity rather than on the health
of the oceans and so on, are on the increase. If we really want to take care of
our common home, we need to accept the pressing long-term challenge of an
education based on human dignity and integral ecology.

In conclusion, if external deserts are multiplying in the world because
internal deserts have become so large, the ecological crisis is an appeal to a pro-
found inner conversion. We are facing a great cultural, spiritual and educational
challenge witch will imply a long process of regeneration. The Church will pro-
vide selfless, effective support on all levels, because it cooperates with all the
institutions that care for both the good of individuals and the common good.

Thank you

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