Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Seoul (Agenzia Fides) - “The economic growth caused by the destruction of nature is senseless.” This is what the Bishops of Korea say in their Message for World Environment Day, which is celebrated today, June 5. The Message, which was prepared and issued by the Justice and Peace Commission of the Korean Bishops' Conference, highlights the damage done by a globalization without control, in terms of the ecosystem, and therefore, on the life of man himself.
Bishop Boniface Choi Ki-san, President of the Commission, affirmed in the text: “The main reasons for the current economic crisis reside in an economic policy and globalization that are unjust and one-sided. The economic activity that does not respect the environment has worsened the planet's environmental crisis. We should be on guard for growth and development policies that are carried out in a careless destruction of nature.”
The message mentions the urgent need to protect Creation, as a gift from God, and encourages Christians and all men of good will to pay greater attention to the ecological question, on a world level. The faithful and all citizens are asked to maintain awareness and a sense of responsibility, especially in their lifestyle, not giving in to a culture of consumerism and materialism. There is a need, as well, to develop a general awareness in the promotion of industrial progress, the message said, not considering the environment merely as an instrument for progress and exploitation, and being respectful of Creation, the ecosystem, and the right to life.
The document concludes by saying that the relationship between humanity and Creation seems to be damaged. We need to reestablish a healthy relationship, an exchange of gifts, between humanity and creation. Creation, as a work of God, is a manifestation of his power and his creative will, which man is called to defend. In his contact with nature, man can rediscover himself and his relationship with God. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 5/6/2009)
