We are a nation in mourning. The bushfire emergency has taken the lives of 33 people, over a billion animals, it has destroyed over 3000 homes and farms, feed and the futures of many Australian families. And the fire season still has months to go. We are all struggling to make sense of this unprecedented calamity.

It is in solidarity with each other and this poor burnt country that we come together as a community and reflect on this in light of the beautiful Papal encyclical, Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common. The title is taken from the first line of the encyclical, "Laudato si', mi Signore," or "Praise be to you, my Lord." In the words of Saint Francis of Assissi we are reminded that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us. The encyclical provides an analysis of human life and its three intertwined relationships: with God, with our neighbour, and with the earth:

Everyone is invited to join the Justice and Peace Office, Pacific Calling Partners and a number of other speakers to reflect on these extraordinary times, to ask what Laudato Si has to offer in hope and strength and faith, and finally, what are we called to do as stewards of this extraordinary country.

WHAT: Laudato Si' and the bush fire emergency – what it means and what we are willing to do in response.

WHEN: Thursday 13 of February, 2020, 6 pm to 7.30pm

WHERE: Level 8, Polding Centre, 133 Liverpool Street, Sydney

WHO: Fr Peter Smith, Promotor of Justice and Peace, Felicity Wade, Pacific Calling Partners, a member of the RFS, other speakers to be confirmed.

Please RSVP to [email protected]