This is a big deal that has already gained worldwide attention, enough so that there are people making videos that imply that the Pope is an action movie star. Frankly not everyone will be happy, particularly religious and political conservatives.
I can understand how some might be tempted to dismiss the Pope's move, but I think that would be a mistake. For all the differences many of us have with Catholic teaching (especially concerning matters of sexuality), I'm convinced that it is generally a mistake to dismiss the good in others if they don't agree with us 100% down the line. We can be critical of mistakes and problems without demonizing people. Otherwise, we end up practicing just another form of dogmatism.
Other denominations and faith institutions have spoken as eloquently and often earlier on the religious requirement address climate change. But as much as I love the church tradition I come from, few people give a rip what old-line Protestant denominations think. Some might see the Catholic Church getting on the climate bandwagon a bit late, but I see 1.2 billion more allies joining the fight.
To help life on our planet endure, it's going to take a lot more than aging radicals, post-Christian millenials, and a smattering of activist institutions. I'm glad we have the Vatican on our side; perhaps we'll see a Bishop or two show up at a rally or attend a delegation for 100% renewable energy. After all, miracles happen, and I would say that this document qualifies as evidence of that!
It takes a planetary village,
Timothy Murphy
Executive Director
P.S. For the full text of Pope Francis' encyclical, click here.