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Parishes and Catholic schools can provide a foundation for spreading awareness of Catholic socal teaching on the environment through formal faith formation programs and other means of education.  In Laudato Si’, the Pope Franicis says environmental education “seeks also to restore the various levels of ecological equilibrium, establishing harmony within ourselves, with others, with nature and other living creatures, and with God.”  Environmental education should facilitate making the changes in our lifestyles that give ecological ethics its deepest meaning.

 
Pope Francis emphasizes that “Many things have to change course, but it is we human beings above all who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone. This basic awareness would enable the development of new convictions, attitudes and forms of life. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal.”

There is a wide range of topics that should be included in this formation effort.  He “challenges us to examine our lifestyle" and urges us to work together and educate each other on the issues.