The Interdiocesan Environment Commission will be hosting a conference dedicated to the creation of faith-based centres of sustainability. These are spaces where faith, ecology and education converge. Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ and by the Vatican’s Borgo Laudato Si’ initiative, these centres aim to integrate organic agriculture, renewable energy, theological reflection and social outreach. The conference ‘Faith in Action – Building Sustainability Centres for Our Common Home’ will be the first step towards fulfilling Pope Francis’ teachings in a concrete and relevant manner for Malta.
The event will be held over two days and will bring together Church leaders, educators, pastoral workers and environmental advocates to explore how Catholic communities can respond to today’s ecological and social challenges. Participants will take part in key sessions, workshops and collaborative discussions led by international and local experts, including Bishop John Arnold of Salford, Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi, Dr Emma Gardner and Emily Cahill from the Laudato Si’ Centre of the Salford Diocese in the UK, Dr Amanda Anderson from Anglia Ruskin University, Prof. Nadia Delicata, Prof. Ruben Borg, and Fr Mark Ciantar OFM. A working document will be drawn up from this conference, based on the participants’ experiences and suggestions, to guide future initiatives in Malta and beyond.
The event will conclude with a session of spiritual reflection inspired by St Ġorġ Preca, with readings from Scripture and Laudato Si’, and an outdoor Mass celebrating creation and community, symbolising a shared commitment to sustainable living rooted in faith.
The conference will be held on 10 and 11 October, at Dar Ħanin Samaritan in Santa Venera. For further details or to register for the conference, visit church.mt or contact the Interdiocesan Environment Commission on [email protected] or 79070357.