…On Thursday, Francis will release his first major teaching letter, known as an encyclical, on the theme of the environment and the poor. Given the pope’s widespread popularity, and his penchant for speaking out on major global issues, the encyclical is being treated as a milestone that could place the Roman Catholic Church at the forefront of a new coalition of religion and science… Giotto di Bondone, one of 28 frescos in Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi …By wading into the environment debate, Francis is seeking to redefine a secular topic, one usually framed by scientific data, using theology and faith. And based on Francis’ prior comments, and those of influential cardinals, the encyclical is also likely to include an economic critique of how global capitalism, while helping lift millions out of poverty, has also exploited nature and created vast inequities… via Pope Francis to Explore Climate’s Effect on World’s Poor – NYTimes.com. Share this:TwitterFacebookPinterestLike this:Like Loading...
