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Friday for the Future

Taking climate Action Against Climate Change

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Learned and Wise

Learned, finding God in all things; and wise in the ways you use your learning for the common good.

Colossians 1:16-17 “For in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible... all things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

September

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Prayer for Climate Action

Creator God,�You formed the Earth in beauty and balance,�A gift entrusted to our care.�We stand in awe of mountains, oceans, forests, and skies�And we grieve the harm we have caused.

Grant us the wisdom to see clearly,�The courage to act boldly,�And the humility to learn from those most affected.

May our choices reflect justice,�Our voices speak truth,�And our hands work to heal what has been broken.

Teach us to live simply,�To consume mindfully,�And to advocate fiercely for the future of all life.

Let our climate action be an act of love�For our neighbours, for generations to come,�And for You, the Source of all life.

Amen.

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Catholic Social Teaching

Genesis 2:15

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.”

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What is Fridays for Future?

  • The growth of Fridays for the Future has seen some of the largest global climate strikes in history by 2019
  • Millions have participated from various countries, showcasing widespread demand for change
  • This protest exemplifies collective action and the importance of protecting individuals’ rights to express their views

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Why is this protest so important?

  • It highlights the need for legal frameworks supporting environmental justice and addressing climate issues affecting vulnerable populations
  • Highlights the rights to free speech and assembly, crucial for advocating social change
  • Illustrates how young people can influence policy and public discourse on climate change

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Why is YOUR voice so important?

  • A demonstration of youth activism for a sustainable future
  • The power of young voices in shaping a better future for all
  • An act of solidarity with other school children across the world calling on the people in power to take action.

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Inspiration for messages:

‘No more coal, no more oil, keep that carbon in the soil’

‘system change not climate change’

‘Spreading deserts, rising seas, causing climate refugees’

‘Climate change is not a lie, do not let our planet die’

“Love your neighbour, fight climate injustice.”�(Mark 12:31)

“We are stewards, not owners, care for creation.”�(Genesis 2:15)

“Let justice roll down like waters, climate justice now!”�(Amos 5:24)

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Examen: Becoming Learned and Wise �for Climate Justice

Presence and Gratitude

Begin by becoming aware of God’s presence. Breathe deeply.

What moments today made me feel connected to creation?

What gift from the Earth did I receive with gratitude; sunlight, food, water, air?

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Green Weekend, Centre Arrupe Madagascar

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Review the Day with Ecological Awareness

�Look back over your day through the lens of environmental impact and learning.

How did I use my knowledge today to make wise, sustainable choices?

Did I learn something new about the climate crisis or ecological justice?

Was I open to hearing the voices of those most affected by environmental degradation?

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Fr Eric Wanyonyi Simiyu SJ, South Sudan

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3. Pay Attention to Emotions

�Notice your feelings as you reflect.

When did I feel hope or despair about the state of the planet?

Did I feel empowered or overwhelmed by the responsibility to act?

What stirred my conscience or inspired me to live more wisely?

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Flooding in Myanmar

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4. Choose One Moment and Reflect Deeply

Focus on one significant moment.

Was there a time I acted with wisdom and integrity for the sake of the Earth?

Or a time I failed to act, despite knowing better?

What virtue was at play; courage, justice, humility?

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Climate refugees in South Sudan

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5. Look Forward with Hope and Intention

�Ask for the grace to grow in wisdom and action.

How can I use my learning to influence others positively?

What one concrete step can I take tomorrow to live more sustainably?

How can I be a wise steward of creation in my community?

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Seminar on reducing plastic waste, Centre Arrupe Madagascar

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Closing Prayer

Loving Creator,�Teach me to see the world with wise eyes and a compassionate heart.�Help me to learn deeply, act justly, and walk humbly with all creation.�Amen.