An environmental expert, who worked on Pope Francis’ groundbreaking new encyclical on ecology and planetary problems, is to speak at a day conference on eco-theology in Knock Shrine next month. Fr Sean McDonagh is coming to Knock Shrine as part of a new series of faith renewal events, launched last week.
Fr McDonagh is known around the world as a leading eco-theologian and he is speaking in Knock on November 14 at a day conference examining the Pope’s encyclical, Laudato Si’ (Caring for our Common Home ). Laudato Si’ was published earlier this year and was widely recognised as one of the most keenly anticipated papal encyclicals of modern times. It deals with issues such as climate change, pollution, the exploitation of nature’s resources, poverty, and social responsibility. Fr McDonagh advised the Vatican on the first draft of Laudato Si’.
The new series of Faith Renewal events at Knock Shrine, which includes retreats, workshops and seminars, aims to encourage people to discuss and explore their faith and deepen their spirituality this autumn and winter.
The next event in the series is a one-day workshop on The Joy of the Gospel on October 10, delivered by the highly respected theologian, author and lecturer Brian Grogan SJ. A one-day retreat for adults, entitled Quiet Days for Busy People, also takes place on November 7 and again on December 5.
Fr Richard Gibbons, PP and Rector at Knock Shrine, said the faith renewal events were designed to be spiritually, intellectually and pastorally practical with leading experts and speakers in their fields.“We passionately believe Knock can be a resource for the Church in the country and we aim to develop programmes and retreats that can be of use to parishioners,” outlined Fr Gibbons.“This is a first step which will help us to become a place of renewal for all who visit and a resource for the Church in Ireland.”
For more information on the Faith Renewal events or to book a place, visit www.knockshrine.ie/faithrenewal telephone (094 ) 93 88100 or (087 ) 6927850; or email [email protected].
