We have concluded a new Season of Creation, the annual ecumenical period to pray and act for our common home. Throughout the world, local and global events were held, uniting Christians in one faith to ” let justice and peace flow like a mighty river,” as this year’s theme and symbol encouraged.
The Feast of Creation on September 1 began with a prayer service on the importance of reflection, understanding and healing through prayer and connection to the Earth, with voices from religious leaders from various denominations.
The five continents united Christians and churches that organized prayer services, tree plantings, walks, trash collections, awareness talks, moments in nature, and many more events.
In South Africa, the participation of the Green Anglicans was a highlight; the Middle East Council of Churches organized a prayer service; various reflections were shared, such as that of the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Canada, and that of Rev Rachel Mash; there were also events in Sri Lanka, Burundi, Brazil y Philippines, among others.
Voices were raised denouncing the injustices of the climate crisis in many regions, as in the Nueva York Climate March, which was replicated in cities such as London and Paris; while in Nairobi, Africa Climate Week was celebrated.
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An ecumenical prayer vigil, the “Together” gathering, organized by the ecumenical community of Taizé, was held in Rome with the participation of thousands of people united in prayer for Christian unity. It was a historic moment where for the first time the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and Pope Francis met during the Season of Creation to pray together.
The Season of Creation concluded on October 4th, celebrating St. Francis of Assisi, and a global closing event was held in which leaders and activists from different Christian denominations joined together to pray and reflect, in thanksgiving for the time shared. For more news about the Season of Creation, visit the seasonofcreation.org website.