Catholic Leaders converge on Nathalia

State and national representatives from major Catholic organisations gathered in Nathalia on Monday 23 May, for the launch of the Sandhurst Laudati Si’ Action Plan and the commissioning of Catholic schools and parishes to Catholic Earthcare. 

The Sandhurst launch has attracted key leaders within Caritas and Catholic Earthcare from Victoria and interstate. The event, which is a major coup for the region took place on the banks of Broken Creek at commencing with a smoking ceremony. 

The timing of the launch was selected to coincide with Laudato Si’ Week which commenced on Sunday 22 May, marking the seventh anniversary of Pope Francis’ landmark encyclical on creation care. 

Bishop Shane MacKinlay officially launched the Laudato Si’ Action Planner and commissioned Sandhurst schools and parishes who have committed to becoming Catholic Earthcare communities. More than 50 schools and parishes have signed up in the Sandhurst Diocese. 

The Laudato Si’ Action Planner calls on Catholics to unite and to listen and respond together to the cry of creation and to be protectors of this precious planet. There are seven key actions outlined in the planner, including the adoption of sustainable lifestyles, ecological education and community empowerment. 

Celebrations also took place at the conclusion of the event with the cutting of a cake to mark the 20th anniversary of Catholic Earthcare Australia.