Pope Benedict XVI praises Catholics-Orthodox cooperation on environment.

(21 July 2006) : “All Christians, especially Catholics and Orthodox, are called to promote awareness to show the intrinsic link between development, human needs and the safeguarding of creation,” said Pope Benedict XVI in a message to Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople. The Pope's message dated July 6, but released by the Vatican press office on July 20, was delivered on the occasion of a conference on “Religion, Science and the Environment”, a project organized by the patriarch and held in Brazil from 13 to 20 July.
Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, papal representative at the meeting read Holy Father’s message which said, “The task of stressing suitable catechesis with regard to creation, to call attention back to the religious meaning and significance of safeguarding it, is intimately connected with our duty as pastors and can have an important impact on the perception of the very value of life itself and on the adequate solution of consequent unavoidable social problems.”
Pope Benedict XVI then drew attention to the rivers and forests, in their beauty and grandeur that speak to us of God and his magnificent works for man. “How can we not feel called, as individuals as well as communities, to a responsible awareness-raising that translates into coherent decisions to safeguard such an ecologically rich environment?” the pontiff asked.
Seeking greater collaboration between Orthodox and Catholics, the Pope encouraged that all Christians cultivate in their inner selves the openness of heart dictated by charity, which has its roots in faith. In this way, they may offer to the world together a credible testimony of their sense of responsibility for the safeguarding of creation,” the message concluded.