‘Many things have to change course, but it is we human beings above all who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone. This basic awareness would enable the development of new conviction, attitudes and forms of life. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal.’ (Pope Francis, Laudato Si’). We would like to invite you to be part of this transformation and renewal.

The Northern Ireland Catholic Council on Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Council for Justice and Peace and the Laudato Si’ Working Group of the Council for Catechetics of the Irish Catholic Bishops Conference, are hosting a day on transforming our understanding of our faith with Laudato Si’ on 12 April 2019.

The day is intended for representatives from parishes and dioceses across the North. The aim is to introduce attendees to Laudato Si’ and to explore how care for creation is an indispensable part of our Catholic faith. There will also be practical advice and examples given on the day as to how to incorporate the message of Laudato Si’ into the life of a parish. We would like participants to ‘take back’ this message and share it with others in their parish community and champion its importance in parish life. The day will run from 9.00am – 4.00pm and a light lunch will be provided. There is no fee for attending but attendees must register in advance with their diocesan offices and the Council for Justice and Peace, [email protected], by 14 March 2019.

Pope Francis states in Laudato Si’ that ‘All it takes is one good person to restore hope!’ and that ‘this renewal entails recovering and respecting the rhythms inscribed in nature by the hand of the Creator.’ We invite you to rediscover again this wisdom and beauty and join us in April to begin this journey of renewal!