Putting Laudato Si' into Action

One of the questions most frequently asked by parish communities is: How can we turn the vision of Laudato Si’ into practical action? In the face of growing environmental challenges, many people want to respond but are unsure where to begin.

In 2023, the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference invited parishes across Ireland to dedicate 30% of church grounds to nature as a practical response to the biodiversity crisis. Since then, parish communities throughout the country have embraced this call, partnering with local authority Biodiversity Officers to create spaces where wildlife can flourish and where people can deepen their connection with God’s creation.

This August, two special events offer parish groups an opportunity to learn, be inspired, and discover practical ways to care for our common home.

HAVENS FOR NAMTURE ONLINE WEBINAR
Monday, 17 August | 7.30pm

As part of National Heritage Week, The Heritage Council is hosting an online webinar highlighting Havens for Nature: Supporting Biodiversity in Faith Grounds. Published earlier this year, the guide provides practical, achievable ideas for faith communities seeking to enhance biodiversity on church grounds.

The webinar will feature expert speakers who will explain why biodiversity matters, outline simple first steps for parishes, and showcase actions that can make a real difference in local communities.

Visit HeritageWeek.ie to register and find out more


FAITH IN BLOOM CONFERENCE
Saturday, 29 August | Knock Shrine

Knock Shrine will host Faith in Bloom, a day-long conference celebrating the success of its Return to Nature project. Working in partnership with Mayo County Council Biodiversity Officer Sheila Murphy, the Shrine has transformed areas of its grounds through a range of initiatives, including pollinator-friendly habitats, native orchards, bird and bat boxes, reduced mowing practices, and the development of a Biodiversity Action Plan.

The conference will share practical lessons from Knock’s experience and provide inspiration for parish communities interested in creating their own biodiversity projects. For further information, click www.knockshrine.ie/church-return-to-nature-conference-saturday-august-29th-2026/

These events are an opportunity for parish leaders, environmental groups, and volunteers to explore how care for creation can become an integral part of parish life.

As Pope Francis reminds us in Laudato Si’, “All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents.” (Laudato Si’, 14)