This is the third annual Laudato Si' lecture, hosted by St. Mark's Centre for Christian Engagement.
After reading the Holy See’s encyclical letter, Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home, Dr. Aldred came away with a couple of key reflections. First, the work consistently emphasizes the importance of embracing our interconnectedness. This point is reinforced through scientific, social, and theological reasoning, all of which highlight the necessity of fostering this sense of relatedness to effectively confront the global climate crisis we face.
Second, the Holy See underscores the interconnection between creation and humanity’s destiny within God’s creative work. Reflecting on these ideas, and as someone who has embraced his Cree identity, Dr. Aldred believe First Nations communities have much to teach society about living out sacred relationships—with creation, the Creator, and the diverse nations that shape our shared identity.
Indigenous treaty-making, for example, exemplifies how Indigenous peoples sought partnerships with newcomers, aiming to expand and heal communal identities while also restoring the land. Additionally, the Indigenous understanding of sacred land—often misunderstood as viewing the land as divine—offers a nuanced perspective of sacredness. This perspective opens new pathways for dialogue, particularly in the context of sharing place and fostering mutual respect.
Join us for an inspiring conversation on faith, culture, and the shared stories that connect us to each other and the earth!
