Franciscans issue statement on climate change

(May 23, 2012) The largest province of Franciscan (OFM) friars in the United States on Tuesday issued a statement on climate change. “As we reflect on the signs of the times, we may realize that the edifice of the dominant worldview is beginning to crumble,” Holy Name Province said in its statement.” It is a worldview in which human beings have seen themselves as separated from the rest of God’s creation and free to pursue the dream of unlimited material growth and consumption. In its place, the edifice of a new, alternative vision is beginning to emerge,” the statement continued. “This edifice of a new global civilization of love is marked by values of solidarity, sustainability, and justice, and a profound respect for life that extends to all of creation. Working together with people of good will, we as Franciscans, can make a unique contribution toward rebuilding God’s house so that the world comes to reveal more fully the glory and beauty of God,” said the statement of the Franciscans.