Young people responding to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor!
(ANS – Castel Gandolfo) – Pope Leo addresses participants in an international conference on climate justice and reflects on Pope Francis’ landmark ecological encyclical Laudato Si, noting that when the time comes, God will ask us if we cared for our common home.
On Wednesday afternoon, marking the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’, Pope Leo XIV addressed participants in the Raising Hope Conference, organised by the Laudato Si’ Movement.
In his address, the Pope expressed gratitude for the legacy of Pope Francis’ encyclical, noting how its message has inspired schools, dioceses, academic programmes, and international dialogue.
(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Congregation has taken a bold step toward championing ecological education and sustainability by appointing Fr. Savio Silveira, SDB, as the Coordinator for Integral Ecology in the Salesian Youth Ministry Sector for the term 2025–2031. This move underscores the Congregation’s commitment to realizing the vision of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ and forming young people as stewards of the planet.
After completing a successful six-year tenure as Provincial of the Mumbai Province, Fr. Savio brings a wealth of experience in education, pastoral ministry, and social engagement to his new role. His sensitivity to environmental concerns and his dedication to sustainable development have long been hallmarks of his Salesian vocation.
COPeace, organised by the Archdiocesan Office of Environment (AOE), Mumbai in collaboration with the Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS), Mumbai was held on September 28, 2025, at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga, Mumbai. Sponsored by Penny and Ishwar Bajaj, the event brought together 34 participants in understanding the direct impact climate change has on daily lives, linking this with the issues at stake at COP30, and also engaged them in a creative competition to celebrate the Season of Creation.
On September 15, young people from the Don Bosco Oratory Student Residence in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, took part in the II GeoPACHA Conference, held at the city's Technology Hub. The event brought together more than 24 educational institutions from the province and 60 projects presented by students, who reflected on the importance of caring for the Earth and the commitment of young people to current socio-environmental challenges.
At the educational campus of Talita Kumi, located in San Pedro Carchá, Alta Verapaz in Guatemala, 350 boarding students carry out a practice that goes beyond the classroom: they cultivate vegetables, fruits, and greens for their own consumption.
This process not only ensures a varied and nutritious diet but also strengthens self-sufficiency and nurtures in each student a deep respect for nature. Through agricultural work, the young women acquire practical knowledge that they can replicate in their communities, promoting sustainable habits and healthier lifestyles.
Don Bosco Chinchwad joyfully marked Season of Creation on September 23, 2025, embracing the inspiring theme, "One Earth, One Chance." The celebration commenced with a warm welcome extended to PP. RTN. Ganesh Bora, President of the Rotary Club Pimpri, along with distinguished club members, and respected journalist Mr Camil Parkhe, known for his work with Navhind Times, Sakal Times, and other leading publications. Sr Sujeet, Superior of Mother Theresa Ashram, and the institute's Administrator, Fr Colbert da Silva along with Fr Bosco D'Mello, Fr Jeffrey Fernandes, staff, and students were also present to honor the occasion. The event began with a lively welcome song by the institute’s talented students, setting an enthusiastic tone.
In our fast-paced digital age, the latest smartphone or laptop / desktops often becomes obsolete within a few years—or even months. But what happens to our old devices once we discard them? The answer is troubling: they become part of the world’s growing mountain of electronic waste, or e-waste.
The ‘Thank you dance’
A boat of whale-watchers was on a trip in the coast of California. They noticed a small Humpback whale, trapped. It’s tail and flippers were entangled with fishing nets. Michael Fishbach and his team, who were on the boat thought that the humpback was already dead as it was floating on top of the water.
Month of March always reminds us of influential role the women play in our society. In the following paragraphs, we shall see about few convincing women personalities in environmental protection.
Gauri Devi
“Forest is like our mother’s home, we shall protect it come what may,” voice upraised by Gauri Devi of Chamoli as a weapon. This inspiring lady is known for Chipko Movement (chipko meaning hugging).
A Lenten reflection to stay-rooted (Pray), stay-integrated (Penance) and stay-connected (Share)
I picked up the title from the quote by John Muir, “And into the woods I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” An apt invitation for the lent. Get deep into the forest, slow down, breathe deep, look around, see the hidden, hear the silence, smell and feel the forest. It has a lot to offer for our soul and for our human community.
Climate Change, a ‘threat multiplier’ for the marginalised
A UN reports states that nearly 32 million people got displaced due to climate-related hazards in 2022, which represents a 41 per cent increase compared to 2008. Apart from displacements caused directly from extreme weather, climate is called a ‘threat multiplier.’
2025 marks the tenth anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ landmark encyclical letter on the Care for Our Common Home, in which he invited all people of good to “a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet” (Laudato Si’, 14).
I have picked up this line, “My good friend, what’s your name?” from the conversation Don Bosco had with a young lad, Bartholomew Garelli. He was beaten up by a sacristan for not knowing how to serve for Mass. Don Bosco rescued him from the sacristan, but the sacristan was angry at Don Bosco and said, “What does it matter to you?” Don Bosco, with the heart of a Good Shepherd, said, “It matters plenty. He’s my friend.”
by Fr. Ricopar Royan
The heart of a hummingbird is larger proportionate to its body and so it has a massive flight power. This tiny bird flies alone nearly 40 km/day during its 5,000 km migration. When our problems are oversized, let’s not give up but rely on our hearts’ power. Look for the next supply of energy.