India: Laudato Si’ Ecological Exposure Programme Inspires Philosophy Students in Mangalore

The philosophy students of St. Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy (SJIP), studying at St. Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary (SJS), Jeppu, in Mangalore, took part in a Laudato Si’ Ecological Exposure Programme on August 21 at the Kanthavara Forest Base Camp, located at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

The programme was organized in collaboration with the Catholic Association of South Kanara (CASK Centenary Trust) and the Chair in Christianity, Mangalore University, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation of creation and a stronger commitment to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to care for our common home. The news was first reported by Catholic Connect.

An orientation session at Kanthavara Grama introduced participants to the importance of conserving the reserve forest. A “Broken Forest Tour” allowed the students to experience nature directly while engaging with pressing ecological concerns such as deforestation, human–animal conflicts, biodiversity loss, and the degradation of water sources. Students were reminded not to assume that humanity is “smarter than nature.” At the Bamboosetum, which hosts 68 varieties of bamboo, they learned that bamboo produces 30% more oxygen than most other plants.

The exposure integrated both scientific and spiritual perspectives on ecology. Environmentalists stressed that unchecked capitalism presents a greater threat to the environment than religion. Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ was presented as a response to the suffering of creation and humanity, emphasizing four key themes: the ecological problem, ownership, carrying capacity, and the need for healing and conversion.

The day also included a symbolic act of hope, with students planting saplings at the Francis Miyawaki View Point. Reflections drew from the words of St. Augustine: “Love God and do whatever you please: for the soul trained in love to God will do nothing to offend the One who is Beloved.”

In the evening, a felicitation ceremony was held to thank the CASK Centenary Trust (CCT) for their moral and financial support. Distinguished guests included Mr. Richard C. Rodriguez (Managing Trustee), Dr. Derek Antony Lobo (Secretary), Mr. Norbert N. Shenoy (Treasurer), Ms. Clotilda Shenoy, Ms. Patricia Lobo, and Ms. Patricia Mathias. The Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary expressed gratitude to CCT for supporting the integral formation of students.

Students shared their enriching experiences, appreciating the contributions of Arun Shenoy, Jeeth Milan Roche, Fr. Richard, and others who helped make the programme a success.

The event was widely appreciated as a formative step in preparing future priests and scholars to become stewards of creation. As highlighted by Catholic Connect, initiatives like these keep Laudato Si’ alive by linking ecological awareness with faith and action.