Pope’s quotes: Respectful of creation

“Examining our consciences, repentance and confession to our Father who is rich in mercy lead to a firm purpose of amendment. This in turn must translate into concrete ways of thinking and acting that are more respectful of creation. For example: ‘avoiding the use of plastic and paper, reducing water consumption, separating refuse, cooking only what can reasonably be consumed, showing care for other living beings, using public transport or car-pooling, planting trees, turning off unnecessary lights, or any number of other practices.’ We must not think that these efforts are too small to improve our world. They ‘call forth a goodness which, albeit unseen, inevitably tends to spread’ and encourage ‘a prophetic and contemplative lifestyle, one capable of deep enjoyment free of the obsession with consumption.’ “