BURKE, VA – The Peace and Justice Commission of Catholic Diocese of Arlington will host an environmental protection conference Saturday at Nativity Catholic Church Burke.
The conference “Why Should I Care for Our Common Home?” The conference, “Why Should I Care for Our Common Home?” will give examples of how attendees can follow Pope Francis’ call to care about all creation and the human family as laid out in his Encyclical.Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home,” published in 2015.
The Saturday event will start with mass at 5 p.m. by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Diocese of Arlington. Dinner follows at 6 p.m.
Dan Misleh, founder and CEO of Catholic Climate Covenant will give a keynote address on the responsibility of Catholics for caring for creation at 6:45 pm. Following Misleh’s speech, a panel discussion will take place.
The event will also launch an effort over seven years to teach and apply the encyclical in the Diocese of Arlington.
Burbidge stated Tuesday that “we are seeking many opportunities to reduce energy consumption, reduce emission, and improve quality of air and lighting in our buildings,” in a statement. “As stewards for the natural world, may all of us join in ensuring that everyone has the resources they need to fulfill their God-given purposes.”
The panel will discuss the Arlington Diocese’s efforts to improve sustainable practices in its parishes, teach care for all creation in its schools and offer practical ways that people can help protect the environment.
Andrew Shulman, director of Arlington’s Office of Planning, Construction and Facilities, and Lonnell Battle, assistant principal at Bishop Ireton High School, are the panelists. Meghan Goodwin is the associate director of government relations for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Register Participate in the conference in personIt is still available. Nativity Catholic Church is located in Burke at 6400 Nativity Lane.
