Families at St. Anthony's Church in Vakola, a suburb of Mumbai in western India, were encouraged to make care for creation a way of life during an interactive session on integral ecology inspired by Pope Francis' teachings.
The Family Cell of the parish organized the session, "Integral Ecology in the Life of the Family," on August 1 in collaboration with the Office for Environment of Bombay Archdiocese.
The program was led by Deacon Jaime and Mrs. Ligia Fonseca, who reflected on Pope Francis' vision of integral ecology through key Church documents, including Laudato Si', Fratelli Tutti, Amoris Laetitia, and Gaudete et Exsultate.
Welcoming participants, Fr. Ryan Alex, Spiritual Director of the Family Cell, introduced the speakers and emphasized the importance of integrating care for creation into Christian family life.
The session focused on practical ways families can respond to what Pope Francis describes as "the cry of the earth." Speakers encouraged participants to reduce the use of plastics and disposable products, practice proper waste segregation, support recycling and composting, and choose environmentally friendly products whenever possible.
They also highlighted the importance of avoiding unnecessary consumption and overspending, stressing that responsible stewardship begins with simple choices made at home. Young people were encouraged to take an active role in protecting the environment and inspiring sustainable practices within their families and communities.
The speakers reminded participants that while individual actions may seem small, collective efforts can bring significant environmental change.
Around 27 people, including members of the Family Cell, attended the program, which featured an open discussion that allowed participants to share their experiences and ask questions about living more sustainably.
Participants described the session as both informative and inspiring. Many said it helped them connect environmental responsibility with the biblical call to care for God's creation and offered practical steps for putting their faith into action.
The Family Cell expressed gratitude to the speakers for their thought-provoking presentation and thanked parish priest Fr. Francis Carvalho and Fr. Ryan Alex for their guidance and support in organizing the program. Organizers said they hope to continue offering similar faith formation initiatives that encourage families to live the Gospel through responsible stewardship of creation.
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