[Editor’s Note: CNN Philippines will be on top of the release of Pope Francis’ climate change encyclical titled “Laudato Si.” Catch the special coverage today (June 18) at 5:00 p.m. with Pia Hontiveros.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — A strong recognition and a humble admission.
The content of the upcoming climate change encyclical of Pope Francis was described in polar opposites by Prof. Michael Asis of the Ateneo de Manila Theology Department.
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But both point to a single fact: the continuing deterioration of the environment is due to human irresponsibility.
Asis said this is the first time that a Papal encyclical will focus on the Earth’s well-being more than anything.
“It will recognize the severe stress that human irresponsibility has inflicted on the care of the environment.”
A papal encyclical is a letter from the pope. It discusses the Catholic doctrine and current issues through the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Related: Pope previews long-awaited letter on climate change
What to expect?
Pope Francis’ climate change encyclical, titled “Laudato Si” or “Be praised,” also received opposing reactions.
Related: 5 key questions about Pope Francis and climate change
On one side are environmentalists who support it. On the other end are those who deny the existence of climate change.
One thing for sure, however, is that “Laudato Si” could have a significant influence on political decisions, Asis said.
“Certainly this will have a great impact given the pope’s moral authority all over the world and his wide popularity. In fact, I think he’s scheduled to give an address to the U.S. Congress and the UN precisely on this topic in a few weeks or months.”
Stance of PH Catholic Church
The Catholic Church in the country has become very environmentally-conscious for the past 20 years, the professor said.
He added that bishops in the country have often echoed the Vatican’s concerns over the care for the environment, especially as it impacts the poor.
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“I think this is an issue very close to the heart of the pope because his papacy is really known for its preferential option for the poor.”
He further said that he expects the papal letter to provide strong grounding for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) moral teachings and exhortations.
