As we return to our daily routines, work and school, we cannot help but reflect on the events of the summer weeks, centred on relentless bushfire and drought, that have impacted on so many of us. This Earth, created and given by God to us to love, enjoy and nurture is so clearly in need of our care to ensure that it is restored and continues to provide for us, thriving as it was meant to.

Our hearts and prayers have responded to the real suffering and loss of people, their loved ones, homes and communities, and so many of our beautiful animals and plants.

We have been exposed to distressing and visible events for many weeks now. We are reminded so graphically of the responsibility that sits with each one of us, to not only respond to the needs that are so real and urgent, but also to the need for change in our lives to ensure a sustainable future for this wonderful world of ours; to bring hope for a future that is filled with the joys and blessings of God’s gift to us.  

Without our awareness, hope for our planet, our immediate environment, and for all those who have been directly affected by fire and drought cannot exist. Hope requires our strength of character and action; informed decision-making for the good of the planet; and demonstrated love and compassion for those who are suffering. Without these, hope has no substance - and we need it so much at this time. 

 As we begin a new year, then, we might pray with hope in our hearts:

 

 All-powerful God, you are present in the whole universe and in the smallest of creatures. You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. 

Pour out upon us the power of your love, that we may protect life and beauty. Fill us with peace, that we may live as brothers and sisters, harming no one ...

Bring healing to our lives, that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. (Pope Francis, ‘Laudato Si’)