Care of Earth

Marian University’s Social Justice Committee and the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes welcomed the public to a free presentation and panel discussion on “Care for Earth” held on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 in the Stayer Auditorium. 

The following are videos of the presentation.
Care of Earth - Keynote Speaker Dianne Bergant, CSA 
The Panelists
Sister Jean Addresses Moral Choices The panelists
Questions and Answers

Presenters built on Pope Francis’ encyclical letter On Care for Our Common Home issued by the Vatican in June. They also referenced his recent addresses to the United States Congress and the United Nations in which Pope Francis urges courageous and responsible effort to “redirect our steps” in order to avert the most serious effects of the environmental deterioration caused by human activity. Pope Francis speaks not to a narrow audience – to legislators, to world leaders, or to people of faith – but rather to all people of good will.  With a message rooted in Sacred Scripture and in traditional teaching of the Catholic Church (and other major religions as well), Pope Francis calls on all people to “till and keep” the garden of the world that is home for present and future generations and all living species. 

“Pope Francis’s recent visit in September and his emphasis on the urgency of care for Earth makes this a very timely topic,” said Sister Sally Ann Brickner, one of the organizers of the event.

As the keynote speaker, Sister Dianne Bergant, a member of the Congregation of St. Agnes and Distinguished Theologian & Professor Emerita of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, stressed the interconnectedness and interdependence of humans with all creation. “We are a part of creation not separate from it, and subject to the wondrous cosmic design of God” Sister Dianne states.

The dialogue continued with a panel of experts considering various aspects of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’ (Latin for the opening words, Praised Be”).  Dr. John Morris from Marian University spoke about the science of climate change. Dr. Kevin Quinn from St. Norbert College considered the economic ramifications of care (or failure to care) for the environment.  Mr. Steve Borowski described how and why Monroe Clinic erected one of the most “green” medical buildings in the state of Wisconsin. Sister Jean Steffes, General Superior of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, addressed moral choices that individuals and organizations must make in order to care for Earth and all its inhabitants. Speakers also responded to questions and comments from the public.