To mark the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’, the Laudato Si’ Movement Timor-Leste, in collaboration with Jesuits in Timor-Leste, hosted a seminar under the theme “Faith, Ecology, and Actions for the Future.” The event gathered over 100 participants, including youth leaders, parish representatives, educators, and civil society advocates, who came together to explore the spiritual and practical dimensions of caring for creation.
The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic Mass, emphasizing that ecological commitment is not only a social responsibility but also a profound expression of faith rooted in our relationship with God the Creator. The Mass set the tone for the day, reminding participants that caring for the environment is inseparable from nurturing the spirit and promoting justice and solidarity within communities.
A panel discussion formed the heart of the seminar, featuring speakers from the Church, Academia, and youth environmental activism sectors. Panelists highlighted that true ecological action begins within the human heart. Fr. Rolando, SDB, remarked, “We cannot plant a garden on the ground if we do not have a garden in our hearts,” underscoring the importance of inner conversion before external action. Delvio Sequeira, youth activist, added, “We say we love God, yet many times we forget to love God’s creation,” challenging participants to align faith with daily ecological practice. Dr. Antero, from the academic sector, encouraged sustainable habits, emphasizing, “Love others and nature as we love ourselves. Maintain a fraternal relationship with nature. Plant what we eat, and eat what we plant…” Another important reflection focused on public responsibility: caring for land and preventing waste is part of our ethical and spiritual duty.
The discussion emphasized that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility connecting faith, culture, and community identity. The seminar also highlighted how ecological commitment aligns with the Jesuit Apostolic Plan, particularly the call to “Care for Our Common Home,” which encourages education, spirituality, and grassroots action as pathways to reconciliation with creation. The Laudato Si’ Movement, both globally and in Timor-Leste, continues to mobilize communities toward ecological conversion, environmental justice, and sustainable development, a commitment that grows increasingly urgent amid climate impacts, biodiversity loss, and waste challenges.
The seminar concluded with a final reflection and blessing, inviting participants to commit to concrete ecological actions in their families, communities, and institutions. As Delvio Sequeira reminded participants, “We have talked enough. It is time to act together to care for our land.” The event demonstrated that the 10-year anniversary of Laudato Si’ is not only a moment for celebration but also a renewed call from Pope Francis for faith-inspired ecological action, collaboration, and hope. Timor-Leste’s ecological future, grounded in faith and strengthened by knowledge and collective action, depends on communities translating inspiration into tangible, sustainable change.
Written by: Lucrecia Nessi, ETR Volunteer