We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. Care for the earth is not just an Earth Day slogan, it is a requirement of our faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God’s creation. This environmental challenge has fundamental moral and ethical dimensions that cannot be ignored.
As many of you know, Bishop Emeritus Stephen E. Blaire cared deeply about the environment. Within the California Catholic Conference, Bishop Blaire served as the Chairman for the Ad Hoc Committee on Environmental Stewardship. This committee was a driving force behind the California Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Pastoral Statement, “God Calls Us All to Care for Our Common Home,” June 18, 2019, on the fourth anniversary of Laudato Si’: “On Care for Our Common Home.”
Below you will find a complete Pastoral Statement as well as a summary document in both English and Spanish. Bishop Blaire will be remembered for many things. His work and dedication for the care of the environment as expressed in this statement will certainly be among them.