Forum of the Comboni Family on Integral Ecology 2025 – 7 and 8

Thereafter, the participants were invited to share their experiences from the participation in the days of the People’s Summit. From sharing, the following themes were highlighted: women, and the climate crisis, the devastating effects of mining. Amidst these challenges, a strong sense of hope emerged, expressed repeatedly by communities, church leaders, and civil society groups. The visible involvement of religious groups, the participation of the Indigenous peoples, the engagement of children and Church movements were all seen as signs of life and growth.

During the afternoon session, various experiences of integral ecology were presented. These include the Laudato Si’ Centres in Peru and DR Congo, and the ecological ministries and sustainable initiatives for women of the Comboni Sisters. Comboni Lay Missionaries and Comboni Secular Missionaries they also presented their work in promoting ecological education, and community engagement.

After we had group discussions followed by sharing. Two points emerge from the sharing are: 1. Progress in the awareness and practice of Integral Ecology through participation in the Social Forums and the Forums of the Comboni Family. 2. Acknowledgement of the need to make Integral Ecology a pillar of our mission.

The day concluded with Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Piercarlo Mazza, a Comboni missionary working in Nova Contagem, Brazil. In his homily, Fr. Mazza reminded us to stand boldly with Indigenous peoples and to confront oppressive structures with courage and faith.

Forum of the Comboni Family on Integral Ecology 2025 – 8

The final day for the Forum of the Comboni Family on Integral Ecology (Tuesday, November 18) began with a moment of prayer, inviting members to reflect on the process of advocacy for integral ecology. After prayer, we focused on Pope Leo XIV's message to the Churches of the Global South gathered at Belem, Brazil for the COP30. In his address, the Holy Father reminded them that one in three people worldwide is already affected by the impacts of the ecological crisis. While notable progress has been made, he stressed that we must not slowdown in seeking concrete and transformative action. He called for deeper collaboration with scientists and reiterated: “We should not be seen as rivals for the earth’s spoils, but collaborators.”

Following the Pope's message, several speakers were invited to share different issues of interest. Fr. Fernando González Galarza, Mccj, the Secretary General of Mission, was called in to share on the Laudato SI' Action Platform (https://laudatosiactionplatform.org/). A platform solely created to enhance familiarization, assimilation, and practical application of the principles enshrined in Laudato Si. He emphasized strongly the need to take advantage of the resources that the website provides. He further noted that to facilitate quick understanding and planning, the website offers different options that are tailored to different needs. Consequentially, this makes it an ideal aid in strategic climate advocacy, planning, and training.

After, Sr. Nelly Boonen was also invited to share about VIVAT, an international organization that focuses on transformative advocacy, justice, peace, and sustainable development. Sr. Boonen explained that VIVAT mainly works as a pressure group. Its main objective is to push for better policies and just political actions for the betterment of the local communities. From there, she took us through sessions focusing on the experience and potential of VIVAT international and the greater adherence of the Comboni family to this organization.

Then, Fr. Mumbere presented the mission Parish of Piquia, Amazonia region. Some notable highlights from his presentation include the geographical nature of the area, the type of apostolate given and its objectives as well as collaborative ministry. Furthermore, Fr Mumbere added that in Piquia, evangelization is guided by the principles of Laudato Si.

After we went into groups. Following the discussions, members shared the need to continue the advocacy as a Comboni Family. Involvement of the media and local mission animators should also be given special attention (see more in the final declaration).

We concluded the day with Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Raimundo Nonato, Mccj, provincial superior of Brazil. In his homily, Fr. Rocha gave thanks to God, the people who attended, and the general administration for the support. In line with the day's readings, he encouraged members not to be spectators but active collaborators in the vineyard of the Lord.