The Archbishop of Manila on September 1 has reminded Filipinos of their “collective duty” to protect and share the gifts of God’s Creation. 

Cardinal Jose Advincula invited the faithful to celebrate the Season of Creation “with gratitude for the gifts we received and with the firm resolve to share and be responsible stewards of God’s gifts.” 

In his homily during a Mass to open the annual global observance, he said that “what we received as a gift, we must give as a gift.”

“When we do not recognize the gifts that we have received, we fail to be responsible stewards,” said the prelate. 

Cardinal Advincula said that the gifts of God’s Creation “must not be monopolized only by the few,” adding that gifts “must flow,” “must be shared,” and “must benefit all.” 

The Season of Creation is a 34-day observance of prayer and action for the protection of ‘Our Common Home’ of all Christians around the world. 

It runs from September 1, the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology.

In the Philippines, the celebration of the global event is extended until October 10, the Indigenous Peoples’ Sunday. 

Cardinal Advincula also urged the Filipinos to respond to the call of Pope Francis to “make courageous choices for a simple and environmentally sustainable lifestyle.” 

In a video message released by the Vatican on September 1, the pontiff hailed the young people for their “courage to undertake projects for environmental and social improvement.”

The pope said adults can learn much from them because “they are at the forefront” in all matters related to caring for the planet.

“Let us take advantage of their example and reflect on our lifestyle, especially during these moments of health, social and environmental crisis,” he said.