A Grave Moral Obligation
As tenants and custodians of the world we have a responsibility to care for the environment especially when that environment directly affects our health. A quick glance at our world will show that we have caused it to slide even from its fallen state. Much of the damage done to the Lord’s vineyard has come out of the abuse of the earth’s resources. Pope John Paul II taught us this in no uncertain terms and offered us a plan of action to undo what can be undone, “Economic activity carries with it the obligation to use the goods of nature reasonably. But it also involves the grave moral obligation both to repair damage already inflicted on nature and to prevent any negative effects, which may later arise… especially in regard to toxic residue.” This, he said is “the responsibility of everyone,” and then continued, “I should like to address directly my brothers and sisters in the Catholic Church, in order to remind them of their serious obligation to care for all of creation.” Our responsibility to ensure the basic right for wellness through a healthy environment is a now a matter of repair and prevention, and the matter is a grave one. Certainly this responsibility is secondary to the threat against life as evidenced in issues like abortion and euthanasia, yet if we can do something to repair and prevent the ravages of toxic chemicals we should do it. Otherwise by our indifference we cause the suffering of others as well as ourselves.
Taking It Personally – Lifestyle Change
What can the average person do to repair the poisoned environment when the scale of it is so grand? John Paul II gives us this direction, “Modern society will find no solution to the ecological problem unless it takes a serious look at its lifestyle.” We should not be content with merely voting for environmental reform but we should take action to bring it about in whatever small way is within our immediate control. Many of our daily activities involve chemicals that directly affect not just our overall environment but also our personal health in adverse ways. What is surprising to find out is that using these chemicals that cause cancer and other serious health problems is completely voluntary and that there are alternativesthat are effective, affordable and convenient. Choosing to make responsible use of the earth’s resources in our own little corner of the world may seem small but their collective use by an increasing number of people is having an impact on our world.
One of the many families that have taken to heart John Paul’s challenge to prevent and repair is the Bartel family. When the Bartel family discovered alternative products they switched out their entire house and even brought them to work. “Every time I use these products, I am reminded that I am making a difference in the world in some small way and that it is pleasing to God,” explains Becca Bartel. This is right on track with how the Church and pope John Paul II view all material goods, “as God’s gifts to us. They are meant to bring out in each one of us the image of God.” As simple as it may be this is no small message that is entrusted to each individual family. Again pope John Paul II explains, “An education in ecological responsibility is urgent… The first educator, however, is the family, where the child learns to respect his neighbor and to love nature.” This can be one of those great daily opportunities to teach our children about our faith because; by example we are showing them love of neighbor and God through the world he created.
Sources:
Address Of His Holiness Pope John Paul II To The Diplomatic Corps, Monday, 13 January 2003
The Ecological Crisis: A Common Responsibility; Message Of His Holiness Pope John Paul II For The Celebration Of The World Day Of Peace January 1, 1990
Pope John Paul II –Solicitudo Rei Socialis . . . in everyday language. On Social Concern, 1987
