Pope Leo XIV Unveils New Mass Focused on Environmental Care

Pope Leo XIV’s recent announcement highlights the Church's dedication to responding to climate change and advocating for environmental justice, continuing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

 

The Vatican has officially released a new rite for Mass that emphasizes the need for reverence towards creation. The Mass, titled “Mass for the Care of Creation,” is part of a larger initiative by Pope Leo XIV to build upon the environmental commitments established by Pope Francis. The announcement was made on Thursday, with Cardinal Michael Czerny presenting the new rite during a press conference at the Vatican.

This new Mass is intended to be a prayerful approach for congregations to seek divine assistance in preserving the environment. It draws inspiration from Francis’ groundbreaking 2015 encyclical, “Laudato Si’,” which set a precedent for the Church's involvement in environmental advocacy.

Cardinal Czerny articulated the significance of the Mass, stating that it offers "liturgical, spiritual, and communal support" for humanity’s responsibility toward nature, thereby reaffirming the Church's commitment to environmental stewardship. This move follows Pope Leo’s expression of concern for ecological issues in a message delivered ahead of the Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation on September 1, where he highlighted the urgency of environmental justice.

Pope Leo XIV urged that the environmental crisis has transformed from a concept into an immediate demand for action, emphasizing that it is a matter of justice that transcends mere ecological protection. The decision to create this new Mass stems from requests for a liturgical expression that resonates with the teachings found in “Laudato Si,’” according to Cardinal Czerny.

The establishment of this rite is a pivotal step in promoting awareness and engagement regarding the pressing environmental threats facing the world today.