As the Church celebrates the Season of Creation this month, a priority for prayers and action for South Australian Catholics will be the devastating impact of the algal bloom outbreak. Source: The Southern Cross.
The thousands of dead fish and other marine life washing up on the state’s shores have reinforced the message of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ that “we are co-creatures and part of all that God has made”.
Candlelight vigils have been held at some beaches, including Brighton where McAuley Community School Year 6 eco leader Sheridan Millhouse-Shapter addressed the large gathering.
Year 5 student Isaac Gray also attended the vigil as a member of the school’s ecology group, as did members of the Emmaus, Mount Barker, Holy Family and Brighton Catholic Earthcare and ecology groups.
Sheridan said being at the beach and enjoying the ocean was one of her favourite pastimes.
“That’s why it’s really upsetting to see sea creatures washing up on the shore – they don’t deserve that,” she told the gathering at the Brighton Jetty.
“Sometimes I wonder what it will be like when I grow up, if nothing changes. If algae blooms keep spreading, our beaches, sea life and even our health could be at risk.
“I really hope the algae clears up soon, so everyone can enjoy the beach again – the way it’s meant to be.”
In the 10th anniversary year of the trailblazing encyclical Laudato Si’, Adelaide Archbishop Patrick O’Regan will celebrate a Season of Creation outdoor Mass at Stockade Botanical Park on Saturday.
Monica Conway, a member of the Archdiocese’s Council for Integral Ecology, said the Mass would include prayers for the marine life and coastal communities affected by the algal bloom.
Other local Season of Creation activities include a guided tour of the Seacliff Dunes on September 13 organised by the Brighton parish Ecology Group.
FULL STOYR
Focus on fragile creation (By Jenny Brinkworth, The Southern Cross)
