This past week (15th -19th ), the Laudato Youth Initiative in Uganda has been conducting reflective, vibrant and deeply spiritual encounters for the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on care for our common home. The celebrations, themed under the call to ecological conversion, culminated in a reflective pilgrimage of Green Hope in Kampala archdiocese, Fort Portal Diocese and impactful gathering of leaders at St. Adolf Holy Cross Parish, Kanyabachope, in Kyenjojo district under the hospitable leadership of Rev. Fr. Dr. Ronnie Kawooya C.S.C. the parish priest at St. Adolf.
St. Adolf Parish was a symbolic and fitting venue for this culminating event, drawing a spiritual connection to St. Adolf Ludigo Mukasa, a Uganda Martyr and patron of herdsmen and farmers; people who embody the intimate relationship between humanity and the land. It is in this context that the Laudato Youth Initiative leaders and their Laudato Si Clubs patrons, Chaperones and mentors gathered for a unique open-air Laudato Si’ Mass celebrated “under the trees of reconciliation.” A natural space at the parish designated as reconciliation gardens that offered a serene and symbolic setting, reinforcing the sacred bond between Creator and creation.
The mass was followed by a dynamic patrons’ meeting involving youth members, parish leaders, and invited guests. The discussions were lively, rooted in both theological reflection and practical concerns. Participants engaged in earnest conversation around strategies for advancing climate action, ecological awareness, climate justice, and grassroots initiatives aligned with both the Church’s mission and Uganda’s national appeal for environmental stewardship and human development through eco-modern farming, raring animals and birds to complete the cycle of creation and human growth beginning from forming the youth in schools, parishes and communities.
In his encyclical, Pope Francis exhorts, “Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience” (Laudato Si’, 217). This truth resonated deeply throughout the week’s events. Youth leaders shared testimonies of transformation and commitment, while patrons offered guidance, wisdom, and encouragement. Notably, Mr. Rusahura Akiiki Fort Port Diocese Laudato Si co Ordinator generously donated 100 indigenous trees from the diocese to members at Kanyabachope; a tangible gift of creation, echoing Pope Francis’ words that “the climate is a common good, belonging to all and meant for all.”
Rev. Fr. Dr. Ronnie Kawooya, in his remarks, reminded the congregation that we are “Pilgrims of Green Hope”, journeying not only toward a sustainable earth but also toward a renewed relationship with God through the natural world in this Jubilee Year re-echoing the words of Pope Leo XIV “we must be bridge builders for peace in communities and families”. The leaders then participated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, affirming both their faith and their commitment to the ecological conversion and the mission transform their schools, parishes, dioceses, communities and homes into green models.
The Uganda government’s own appeal for environmental protection has been unequivocal, with calls for youth leadership in reversing deforestation and restoring ecological balance. In this spirit, the Laudato Youth Initiative stands in solidarity with national efforts, guided by both faith and civic responsibility. The week’s celebrations, workshops, and reflections have thus not only deepened the initiative’s theological foundation but have also contributed to grassroots environmental action.
As we concluded our week-long activities for the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si Prayers and actions, our hearts were lifted in thanksgiving for the beauty of God’s creation, for the spirit of unity among the Laudato Youth Initiative leaders and the community spirit of service to others for the common good, and for the call to action. In the words of Pope Leo XIII, whose legacy inspired our new Pope Leo XIV, “The Church… must not be indifferent to the temporal well-being of the people, especially where it concerns their moral and physical health.” Our care for creation is therefore not merely ecological—it is moral, spiritual, and essential to the flourishing of life.
We extend our profound gratitude to Rev. Fr. Dr. Ronnie Kawooya C.S.C, Mr. Benard Kawahwa, Mr. Rusahura Daniel, Ms. Immaculate Kisembo, Ms. Sarah Kirikumwino, Mr. Deo, and Mr. Ayebale Fred leaders from the different Laudato Si Clubs who joined the Club patrons to organize this life changing event. Your leadership, generosity, and unwavering support have inspired many and lit new fires of green hope pilgrims that will usher us into the season of creation theme “Peace with Creation” for our upcoming Laudato Si Festivals in the different regions and clubs.
As the Laudato Si’ Decade continues, we carry forward the lessons of this sacred week—walking gently upon the earth, rooted in faith, and blooming with action to build a kingdom of justice and peace! In the first words of Pope Leo XIV “Peace be with you”
By
Laudato Voices
United for Climate Action
