The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) has launched a translated version of the Pope Francis encyclical Laudato si’, which has been translated into two local languages, Chichewa and Tumbuka, to enhance understanding of the document by Catholics and people of good will for its effective implementation in the country.
The Eucharistic celebration for the launch took place on 17 November at Maula Cathedral in Lilongwe, and the Main celebrant was Right Rev Montfort Stima, ECM’s vice President and Bishop for the diocese of Mangochi. Speaking during the launch, Bishop Stima said Laudato si’ is a gift from Pope Francis for humanity to realise and understand the Love of God and show appreciation and obedience to God through taking care of the environment.
“The Church has a role in shaping people’s conscience on the need for sustainable use of the environment and Care for our common home, the earth.” With these words, Bishop Stima asked all people to do their part in taking care for the environment to mitigate impacts of climate change in the country and the world. He further asked policy makers in the country to create an enabling environment for implementation of Laudato si’ by putting in place policies that support and foster environmental Care.
The ECM itself, in collaboration with its partners, has carried out several interventions in response to the call for action to address the environmental crisis that the world is going through. Indeed, the event brought together various key partners that are implementing Laudato Si’ programs and was graced by various Bishops from the ECM and Bishop Paul Dempsey of Achonry diocese and Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork and Ross diocese from Ireland who are in the country to understand climate issues the country is facing.
The event also provided a platform for sharing and reflecting on what the partners have been doing and discussions on collaboration for promoting Laudato si’ in Malawi and Ireland.
