Panel: CREATION AND ECOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATION OF THEOLOGY



299.6 - CATECHESIS AND CREATION: RECOGNIZING THE VOICE OF GOD IN THE CONTEMPORARY ECOLOGICAL CRISIS

AUTHORS:
Onubuogu C. (KU Leuven ~ Leuven ~ Belgium)
Text:
In recent years, the question of the future of the environment has received considerable critical attention due to global warming, flooding, pandemics, landslides, drought, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and environmental pollution. Central to the causes of ecological degradation is human exploitation of the environment. Hence, studies have consistently shown the need for human responsibility in protecting nature. The Directory for Catechesis indicates that catechesis--understood as the Church's ministry of forming disciples should be able to recognise the voice of God in this crisis and renew itself. By referencing God's self-communication in nature, the paper posits that creation is more than just the setting of salvation history; it actively participates in God's ongoing communication with humanity. Thus, ecological crisis is a sign of the times, urging conversion, discernment, and the reestablishment of relationships with the natural environment. This paper explores how catechesis can be redesigned to incorporate ecological awareness and foster ecological spirituality. It argues that catechesis, as a crucial form of Christian formation, is indispensable for listening to the cry of Mother Earth, fostering ecological awareness, and promoting the relationship between human beings and nature. To effectively contribute to mitigating the ecological crisis, the paper suggests that catechesis should develop three interconnected aspects: a contemplative attitude that recognizes creation as a gift; ethical formation that promotes virtues such as gratitude, simplicity, and solidarity; and active community engagement.