Benedict Speaks Out on Protecting Creation

Pope Benedict XVI had issued a powerful environmental message in his annual World Day of Peace message. "If you want to cultivate peace," he said, "Protect Creation." www.usccb.org/sdwp/international/worlddayofpeacewebsite

Winter Solstice, Abingdon, Virginia 2009

With the release of two Pastorals written by the Catholic Bishops of Appalachia, This Land is Home to Me 1975 and At Home in the Web of Life 1995, ecology became a major focus of the Catholic outreach in Appalachia. Celebrating the Winter Solstice was begun so that we might slow down and reflect on our connection with all creation. The Diocese of Richmond closed it's Appalachian Office of Justice and Peace this past July. To continue the church's mission in Appalachia a new non-profit is under development. This year's Solstice is the first event sponsored by this new ministry, The Appalachian Faith and Ecology Center. Enjoy the movie.