Asian Horizons

CARE FOR CREATION TOWARDS AN INTEGRAL ECOLOGY

Joby Jose Kochumuttom — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Report on the National Conference

Shawna Nemesia Rebello & Shimi Varghese — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Final Statement 27th Indian Catechetical Association 2024 Echoing an Eco-Catechesis

Editors — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Biblical Mandate for Ecological Stewardship

P J Alphonsa — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The paper entitled “Biblical Mandate for Ecological Stewardship” seeks to explore the Biblical canon that implores the protection of the natural and physical world. The Bible, as the inspired Word of God, deals primarily with the relationship between God and mankind and the way to salvation and life eternal. However, the Bible also presents tenets that entreat the protection of the natural and physical world in a holistic manner. Relationships must be seen in terms of responsibilities as well as privileges. Once responsible relationships are fulfilled, a major part of our environmental crisis will be corrected efficiently. There are many references in the Bible to the wonder and importance of the biophysical world that we today generally refer to as the ‘environment.’ These references, although written centuries ago, retain their relevance and point to the heart of many current environmental concerns. Christians should not negate their responsibility towards caring for the environment but should hold themselves accountable as trusted stewards of God’s creation.

Qoheleth’s Ecocentrism and Hebel in Ecclesiastes 3: 16 – 22: Restoring Order to the Created World

Augustin Somé & Uchechukwu Oguike — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The human person has long considered herself/himself to be the centre of creation. The Scriptures tend to affirm this from the creation story in Genesis, where the first humans were created in God’s own image and likeness, and given dominion over the earth (Genesis 1: 27 - 31). This notion of dominion over the earth has since been distorted, and humans have taken a destructive domineering stance over all other forms of creation; including plants and animals. The human condition has driven its agenda over the ages into becoming homo-dominus over all creation. Qoheleth, the Hebrew sage, thinks overwise. A critical, exegetical, ecological reading of the poetic-prose of Ecclesiastes 3: 16 – 22, reveals evidence of a wise man’s apprehension over the destructive tendencies of domineering humans over other forms of creation. Qoheleth is centuries ahead of the Church and Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ as he sounds an ecological clarion call to all of humanity to desist from anthropocentricism that is neither beneficial to the human race nor promotes the will of God on earth. Qoheleth sounds this warning using his concept of Hebel, vanity!

A Path to a Synodal Integral Ecology: Biblical Perspectives

Joy Philip Kakkanattu — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article discusses the synodal path that Pope Francis suggested as a potential way towards holistic ecology, starting with the biblical concept of ecological stewardship. The primary objective is to study a few biblical texts that aid in the development of an eco-theology of mission and participation. The Bible advocates for a harmonious relationship between God, humanity, and creation, with humans as stewards responsible for caring for the earth. This stewardship reflects an integral and synodal approach, emphasising the interconnectedness of all creation. Pope Francis emphasises that human life is interconnected with all creation, forming a universal family. Ecological wisdom and conversion are crucial for sustaining the planet, necessitating practical action plans at grassroots levels to foster ecological balance and care for the earth as part of Christian living.

An Adequate Response to the Ecological Crisis

Francis Xavier Joseph — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This paper focuses on analysing, in short, the Ecological Crisis at Present. At first, it introduces and explains the term crisis in relation to ecology and then it will further narrate to what extent this crisis has hit humanity. At this juncture, one could very well argue that the Ecological Crisis is a fruit that humanity is now reaping as a result of what it has been sowing for so many years. After having clarified the term crisis, the paper further discusses the response that is being made to tackle this crisis. The response can be found in two levels or two dimensions.

The Society or the State
The Religion or the Church

How the above two realms have responded to this great ecological crisis of the present is argued in detail in two different sections. While the state implemented various rules and regulations in order to handle the situation, the Church issued various documents in order to conscientize its faithful and make an adequate and quick response to the great threat that has befallen on the humanity.

Celebration of Life’s Relationality: A Wake-Up Call for Integral Ecology

Paulachan Kochappilly — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article is an invitation to celebrate life’s relationships at all levels and stages towards the dawn of integral ecology, taking into account all forms of life, including human beings, and fulfilling the priestly ministry of praise and thanks for the excellent creation. It discusses celebrating life’s relationality from an integral ecological perspective, drawing attention to three interrelated insights: integral ecology, celebration of triadic relations, and celebration of life. The article explores how life relationships are celebrated based on the triadic realities of God-creation-human beings: rootedness to the creation, relatedness with people, and oneness in God. The author calls for celebrating integral ecology through discovering the mystery of life, gaining mastery of oneself, and becoming a mystic on the move. Being a mystic bestows a beautiful blending of mystery and mastery and promotes the celebration of life’s relationality, contents the author.

Ecological and Social Vision in the Encyclicals of Pope Francis

Sebastian Alackapally — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

not Available

Climate Refugees: The Unseen Victims of Ecological Crisis

Joby Kunnath — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The climate crisis and the ecological problems that we are facing today is reshaping our world, as the climate of our common home is changing in an alarming phase at any point in the history of our earth. Along with social, economic, and environmental problems, climate change can also adversely affect the food, water, and economic security of the common people and nation. Another effect of climate change which this article would like to highlight is its impact on the displacement (forced or voluntary displacement) of person. This article presents the problems of climate migrants/refugees, which are often not noticed by the international community. Recently, the UN and many developed nations have taken certain actions to cushion the problems of these people. Pope Francis was a forerunner in this matter, and he explained clearly their issues in his encyclical Laudato Si’. After taking this issue to the public with the writings, speeches and deeds of Pope Francis, world leaders also began to respond to the needs of climate refugees.

Environmental Insights from Indigenous People: Northeast India Perspective

Paul Lelen Haokip — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Indigenous people live with nature and survive on the natural resources around them. With the worldwide introduction of the Doctrine of Discovery in the mid-fifteenth century, superior powers conquered and controlled many lands. Due to the colonisation of lands, many traditional practices are neglected, forgotten, and intentionally silenced in Northeast India. With globalisation, modern science has hastened the manipulation of nature through unrestrained commercial growth. On the pretext of development, poor people are displaced from their homes and the forest they live in, and they become ecological refugees in their land. Forest and indigenous ways of relation to nature are critical for survival. Tribals have their own indigenous ecological traditions. Environmental insights from indigenous people in Northeast India can offer valuable lessons for sustainable development, conservation initiatives, and climate resilience efforts. Locally available tribal ecological prudence could enhance ecological health and benefit humans. Amid the universal ecological crisis, there is an urgent need to inculcate the tribal ethos of seeing the unseen spirits in the natural elements – trees, stones, animals and streams and accord respect and restrain. This paper orients us for a fresh analysis of our present environmental condition for the common good.

Kani Tribe’s Protection, Stewardship and Struggles; Implementing Catholic Integral Ecology in the Western Ghats, Kerala, India

Rajeev Joseph Palakkacherry — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Kani tribe, residing in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, offers invaluable insights into ecological harmony. Studying their customs and traditions can inspire humanity to live more sustainably. Their way of life reflects the principles outlined in Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which emphasises environmental stewardship. This bridges the Catholic Church and the Kani community, demonstrating the universality of Laudato Si’ message. This study aimed at the Kani Tribe’s Ecological Wisdom for a Sustainable Future of Humanity. However, the Kani people face modern-day challenges. Despite their rich knowledge of survival, younger generations are losing touch with their cultural heritage. Can governments effectively address these issues? Political agendas often prioritise exploitation and profit, raising concerns about their commitment. In this context, the Catholic Church can play a crucial role. Laudato Si’ can be a powerful tool to support the Kani people in preserving their identity and ecological wisdom, benefiting themselves and the entire world. The Kani tribe is a precious flower in the garden of human civilisation. This research, based on scientific surveys and observations, aims to explore the Kani tribe’s contemporary struggles and the valuable lessons they offer for a more sustainable future. It attempts to capture the essence of their unique way of life.

Laudate Deum: Moral Insight & Imperative for the Harmony of Life

Carlos Luis — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This paper explores the intersection of environmental issues, moral understanding, and global harmony through the lens of Pope Francis’s Apostolic Exhortation Laudate Deum. It emphasises the Pope’s call for recognising climate change as a structural crime with profound moral implications. The paper discusses the IPCC’s assessments, highlighting the urgency to limit global warming and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities. It delves into the multifaceted consequences of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss. International cooperation, as evidenced by the Paris Agreement and COP meetings, is examined as a crucial response to the global environmental crisis. The research also touches on Laudate Deum’s emphasis on moving away from fossil fuels and the Pope's critique of a technological paradigm that neglects ethical considerations. Furthermore, it explores the challenges and potential solutions presented at COP28, emphasising the need for a holistic and inclusive ecological approach. The research underscores the importance of individual responsibility, community engagement, and ethical anthropocentrism in fostering ecological harmony. Ultimately, it aligns with Pope Francis’s call for gratitude, positive action, and the glorification of God as integral elements in addressing the intertwined issues of climate change and moral responsibility.

Peter Lombard’s Theology of Marriage: Insights from the Sentences

Yuan Jin — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article explores Peter Lombard’s understanding of marriage, examining his theological framework, perspectives on matrimonial consent, and the significance he attributes to this sacred union. Through a comprehensive examination, this article elucidates the complexities and intricacies of Lombard’s thought, delving into the sacramental nature of marriage, marital duties, and the indissolubility of the marital bond. The analysis not only highlights Lombard’s distinctive theological stance but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the historical development of Catholic teachings on marriage. Furthermore, this article explores Lombard’s interaction with societal conventions, legal implications, and the practical application of theological principles in the matrimonial context of his time. By integrating historical theology with the analysis of social and legal dimensions, this study contributes a more nuanced appreciation of the interplay between Church teachings and marital practices in the medieval period.

Lonappan Arangassery, The Sacraments of Healing in the East and the West: A Study on the Historical, Biblical, Liturgical, Canonical and Pastoral Dimensions of the Sacraments of Divine Mercy in the East and the West, Kottayam: OIRSI Publications, 2021

Naiju Jose Kalambukattu — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000