A Reminder to Steward Well: Pope Francis’s Defense of Creation

Pope Francis made environmental protection one of the central messages of his papacy. He consistently reminded the world that caring for the earth is not optional—it’s a moral responsibility shared by all.

“We must not be indifferent or resigned to the loss of biodiversity and the destruction of ecosystems, often caused by our irresponsible and selfish behavior... Because of us, thousands of species will no longer give glory to God by their very existence ... We have no such right.”

He often pointed out how human actions—driven by greed and neglect—have caused serious harm to the planet. Pope Francis made it clear: the environment isn’t just a background issue. It's directly connected to human life, especially the lives of the poor and vulnerable.

“The earth, our home, is beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth. In many parts of the planet, the elderly lament that once beautiful landscapes are now covered with rubbish.”

He called this a crisis of responsibility. We are not just inheritors of the earth; we are also borrowers from future generations.

“We received this world as an inheritance from past generations, but also as a loan from future generations, to whom we will have to return it!”

Francis was not afraid to speak out strongly. He called environmental destruction a sin and challenged leaders and individuals alike to act.

“Our common home is being pillaged, laid waste and harmed with impunity. Cowardice in defending it is a grave sin.”

“We must never forget that the natural environment is a collective good, the patrimony of all humanity and the responsibility of everyone.”

He often used direct and relatable language to make his point:

“God always forgives, we men forgive sometimes, but nature never forgives. If you give her a slap, she will give you one. I believe that we have exploited nature too much.”

Pope Francis believed that Christians, in particular, have a duty to protect creation as part of their faith.

“As stewards of God's creation, we are called to make the earth a beautiful garden for the human family. When we destroy our forests, ravage our soil and pollute our seas, we betray that noble calling.”

“A Christian who doesn't safeguard creation, who doesn't make it flourish, is a Christian who isn't concerned with God's work, that work born of God's love for us.”

He urged everyone to move away from selfishness and exploitation and toward respect and care.

“May the relationship between man and nature not be driven by greed, to manipulate and exploit, but may the divine harmony between beings and creation be conserved in the logic of respect and care.”

Through his words, Pope Francis reminded the world that caring for the environment is not just a political issue—it’s a human one. And it starts with each of us.