Following St. Francis

Believing that the ecological crisis is a moral crisis, the late John Paul II was an unexpected advocate for ecological responsibility throughout his papacy. In hundreds of speeches, sermons, and encyclicals, he revealed a sophisticated view in which the development of a just human society is closely tied with preserving the health of the earth. Yet there are many in the religious community who continue to view environmentalism as an earthly concern at odds with devotion to God. That is now changing, thanks to the groundwork laid by this most beloved of popes, who will be canonized at the end of 2013. Following St. Francis is accessible and illuminating, and speaks as much to nonreligious readers as to devoted Catholics. Across themed sections (on Poverty, Women's Rights, Humans as Stewards, Responsible Capitalism, etc.), Marybeth Lorbiecki presents the late Pope's contemplation of environmental issues as inseparable from human ones, giving the scriptural background for his beliefs, and the call he made to all of us to change. John Paul II's always held the hope that in rising to meet them, these crises could become the sources of significant spiritual, moral, social, and economic opportunities. In uniting to act responsibly, Catholics and non-Catholics could renew the face of the earth.