SIGNIS Indonesia focuses on Integral Ecology at its 50th assembly
By LiCAS News
The assembly, themed âMedia and Pastoral Integral Ecology: Walking Together to Build a Whole and Harmonious Natural Creation,â gathered 32 members along with Catholic Church leaders.
During the event, the Diocese of Ruteng showcased its commitment to addressing the significant ecological challenges plaguing its region.
RD Benediktus Gaguk, chairman of the dioceseâs Caritas Commission, highlighted critical environmental issues including severe pollution, the destruction of natural habitats, and the ensuing food crises that contribute to health hazards like stunting.
âHumans are the primary contributors to these crises, treating nature as nothing more than a resource to be exploited for materialistic and consumptive lifestyles,â Gaguk said.
Bishop Kornelius Sipayung, OFMCap, head of the social communications office of the Indonesian Catholic Bishopsâ Conference, referenced ĐÓMAP”Œșœ Francisâ Apostolic Exhortation, Laudate Deum, underscoring the dangers of human arrogance towards nature.
âWhen humans assume the role of God, they become their own worst enemies by exploiting the natural world,â he said.
Participants also explored the indigenous Manggarai culture, which views the universe as a life-giving mother, symbolized through the cosmosâa vital concept in fostering a more harmonious relationship with the environment.
The local belief system portrays the universe as a web of life, where every element is interconnected through sacred bonds.
Highlighting practical steps towards ecological sustainability, the assembly witnessed the planting of âSIGNIS Trees,â including varieties like avocado and flamboyant, as a gesture towards reforestation and environmental care.
The assembly also tackled organizational matters such as financial independence, project collaborations among members, and revisions to SIGNIS Indonesiaâs bylaws, aiming to strengthen the networkâs impact on environmental and media initiatives.
, is recognized by the Vatican as an International Association of the Faithful with the mission to âhelp transform cultures in the light of the Gospel by promoting human dignity, justice, and reconciliation.â
It has consultative status with UNESCO, the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, in Geneva and New York, and the Council of Europe. (With reporting from Kristiana Rinawati of the Archdiocese of Palembang)
This article was originally published on . All rights reserved. Unauthorized republication by third parties is not permitted.
Thank you for reading our article. You can keep up-to-date by subscribing to our daily newsletter. Just click here
