The Catholic Church has long recognized the importance of caring for creation, and Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ has brought this teaching into sharp focus. As we work to address the ecological crisis, let us draw inspiration from these 10 saints who embodied a deep love and respect for God’s creation.
1. St. Philip Neri (1515-1595) – A Pioneer of Compassion
St. Philip Neri’s commitment to animal welfare and vegetarianism makes him a pioneer in the care for creation. His kindness extended to all creatures, from birds to mice, and his example encourages us to treat all living beings with respect and compassion.
2. St. Augustine (354-430) – A Visionary of Interconnectedness
St. Augustine’s writings reveal a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all creation. He warned against self-centeredness and encouraged us to see nature as God sees it – with love, beauty, and impermanence.
3. St. Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) – A Mystic of the Natural World
St. Hildegard’s mystical experiences and writings reveal a deep reverence for creation. She saw every creature as a mirror of divinity and encouraged us to cultivate the earthly to create the heavenly.
4. St. Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897) – A Witness to Wonder
St. Therese’s writings are a testament to the beauty and wonder of creation. She saw God’s presence in every detail, from the sun’s light on cedar trees to the fragrance of flowers.
5. St. Benedict (480-547) – A Father of Stewardship
St. Benedict’s emphasis on stability and community encourages us to care for the land and establish a deep connection with the natural world.
6. St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) – A Patron of Ecology
St. Francis’ love for creation is legendary. He shows us that concern for nature, justice for the poor, and interior peace are inseparable.
7. St. Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-1679) – A Native American Mystic
St. Kateri’s life and legacy inspire us to live in greater communion with creation. Her story encourages us to convert our spaces into healthy habitats that honor God’s creation.
8. St. Kevin of Glendalough (498-618) – A Hermit of Simplicity
St. Kevin’s simplicity and love for creation remind us to stop, appreciate, and be grateful for the small things in life.
9. St. John Paul II (1920-2005) – A Champion of Ecological Conversion
St. John Paul II’s papacy was marked by a call to ecological conversion. He encouraged us to undergo a profound transformation in our relationship with creation.
10. St. John of the Cross (1542-1591) – A Poet of the Natural World
St. John of the Cross’s writings reveal a deep love for creation and encourage us to see God’s presence in the natural world.
May these saints inspire us to care for creation with passion, love, and urgency.