C. M. Paul
July 2, 2025: Edited by Prof. Joshtrom Isaac Kureethadam of Salesian University Rome and Dr. Tobias Thornes of Campion Hall Oxford, Laudate Deum: A Last Call for the Planet is a prophetic and interdisciplinary response to the escalating ecological crisis. Inspired by Pope Francis’ 2023 apostolic exhortation Laudate Deum—a sequel to Laudato Si’published on June 18, 2015—this volume marks 10th anniversary of the landmark encyclical gathering voices from theologians, scientists, activists, and policymakers to amplify the Pope’s urgent call for ecological conversion.
Written largely before the death of Pope Francis in April 2025, the 184 page book reflects his enduring legacy of social teaching on ecology. It explores the deepening climate emergency through the lens of integral ecology, linking environmental degradation with poverty, inequality, and systemic injustice. Contributors critique the prevailing “technocratic paradigm” that prioritizes profit over people and planet, and instead advocate for a renewed ethic of care and solidarity.
The volume with two sections: Climate Crisis (6 chapters) and Responses to Climate Crisis (9 Chapters) highlights the role of faith communities—especially the Catholic Church—in leading climate resilience and advocacy. Notable chapters include Dr. Mary Evelyn Tucker’s reflection on interfaith environmental ethics and Prof. Veerabhadran Ramanathan’s call to shift from climate change to climate resilience.
Beyond diagnosis, the book offers hope. It showcases grassroots innovations in mitigation and adaptation, and explores how theological concepts like “situated anthropocentrism” are resonating beyond Catholic circles. Topics such as climate displacement, gender, and civil society responses are addressed with clarity and compassion.
Several chapters critique uncritical anthropocentrism—the belief that humans are the center of creation—and propose a more humble, relational theology. Drawing from Pope Francis’ call to “situated anthropocentrism,” the book invites readers to see humanity not as dominators but as stewards within a web of life. This theological shift challenges exploitative mindsets and opens space for a spirituality of kinship, where every creature is seen as a sibling and co-pilgrim on the journey of existence.
The editors frame the book as a “resonance chamber” for Pope Francis’ prophetic voice, urging immediate and courageous action.
Originally presented at an international conference hosted by the Pontifical Salesian University and the NGO Partnerships for Change, the essays reflect a global, ecumenical spirit. Published by the Laudato Si’ Research Institute, the book is available in print, e-book, and free PDF formats. Download the book here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BmPzndxTILS2_W5BtbLDYcAwXO0W0Gtd/view
In a world nearing ecological tipping points, Laudate Deum: A Last Call for the Planet is more than a book—it is a moral summons to act before it is too late.