The CCCB Calls on All Faithful to Participate in the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation on 1 September 2024

OTTAWA, 26 August 2024 – The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) invites all Catholic faithful to join in the global celebration of the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation that will take place 1 September 2024. This day calls on all of us to unite in prayer, reflection, and action for the protection and preservation of our common home. 

This year’s theme, “Hope and Act with Creation,” draws inspiration from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans (8:19-25), emphasizing the hope that stems from our faith and the active role we must play in caring for the world around us. The theme resonates with Pope Francis’ message, highlighting our responsibility as stewards of creation and our call to safeguard the environment for future generations. 

The CCCB encourages dioceses, parishes, and Catholic organizations to organize special liturgies, prayer services, and educational initiatives to mark this important day. This is a time to reflect on our role in God’s creation, to seek forgiveness for the ways we have harmed the earth, and to commit ourselves to actions that promote ecological justice. 

“We are called to an ecological conversion, to care for our environment as an expression of our love for God and our neighbours,” said Bishop William T. McGrattan, President of the CCCB. “On this World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, let us come together in solidarity with all people of goodwill to pray, reflect, and act for the protection of our planet.” 

In preparation for the special day, the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development has published a video and resources (Pope Francis’ Message, an infographic, several press releases, and a pastoral kit), which can be consulted and downloaded from its website. 

The CCCB hopes that this World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation will inspire a renewed commitment among all Catholics to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices in their daily lives. 

Maribel Mayorga 
Director of Communications
Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB)
Email: communications@cccb.ca
Telephone: 613-241-9461, ext. 225

Source: https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/the-cccb-calls-on-all-faithful-to-participate-in-the-world-day-of-prayer-for-the-care-of-creation-on-1-september-2024/