Laudato Si’ is the name of Pope Francis’ latest letter, or encyclical. The phrase means “praise be to you” and the title is taken from a canticle (or hymn) written by St Francis of Assisi. St Francis, whose name the Pope chose when he was installed as Pope, is the patron saint of the environment. Encyclicals offer Catholics guidance from the Pope concerning issues which affect the lives and beliefs of Catholics.

They often address new technologies or modern issues which aren’t directly addressed in the bible. The Pope is guided to write these by Catholic teachings, the bible and the Holy Spirit. He will also seek the advice of those who are expert in the relevant field.

Laudato Si’ Week is celebrated in Australia 16th May - 24th May. It is a celebration of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ and a call to action for Catholics around the world.

The 2022 theme is 'Listening and Journeying Together.’

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference promotes the celebration of Laudato Si Week from 16th-24th May and invites Catholic parishes, schools and communities to take part in opportunities for prayer, reflection and conversation.

The seventh anniversary of Pope Francis’ Encyclical letter Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home takes place on May 24th. Laudato Si Week is celebrated annually in appreciation of the 2015 Encyclical letter in which the Pope says, “The entire material universe speaks of God’s love” (#84).

Pope Francis has helped Catholics understand the connection people have to the whole of creation and that caring for Earth's community is central to the mission. “All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents” (#14).

Throughout the week the St Joseph’s community will be participating in some environment activities to celebrate Laudato Si’.

Junior Catholic Studies classes will be participating in activities throughout the week. The school community will be participating in the following activities this week:

MONDAY - The bin pods return

TUESDAY - Trash Free Tuesday (Show your HR teacher your trash free lunchbox)

WEDNESDAY - First Joey’s Enviro Club Meeting for 2022

FRIDAY - Kahoot in Homeroom