Pilgrimage with good outcome

The pilgrimage with European Catholic Bishops ended in Maria Zell in Austria today. In a good, serious and open way the days have been filled with sharing, discussion and a will to act and participate in a change to another way of care for creation. I just give you some points from the message that I hope will be published soon

• The need for education and action /ecomanagement. I am very glad to see the positive standpoints to actions among churches in the environmental field. It was often pointed out among the pilgrims the importance to act on every level.
• The solidarity with the poor. The perspective of the poor has always been one of the pillars of a good grounded climate change work in faith communities. I was very glad to find this perspective in the document. This statement can be a good platform for coming activities.
• The ecojustice aspect When it comes to climate change it is more than clear that the most vulnerable to climate induced catastrophes are to a large extent those who contributed less. We will need a way to develop this subject on a broad ecumenical bases and this message gives good incentives for a further dialogue.
• The inclusion of future generations The concept of sustainable development is pivotal for a good environmental work. One part of the definition of sustainable development is the intergenerational perspective. This combined with the of solidarity with the poor and a justice perspective makes this message as a good message on the importance to work on all aspects of the concept of Sustainable Development.
• Referring to the Sibiu agreement on Creation time It is also very satisfying and encouraging to see the reference to Sibiu and the endorsement of Creation Time. This has been one of the more spread parts of ECEN activities so it is very pleasing to see the affirmation of Creation Time.
• Stressing the importance of ecumenical praying and services There was an ecumenical service in the cathedral of St Pölten. Good to see the need for more ecumenism in this issue