Laudato Si' - Voices of the Youth

In this space we will share thoughts from the youth on climate change, their response to it inspired by faith, and what gives them hope.

Esther O., NDMU-Class of 2028

My interest in climate issues actually stemmed from taking AP Environmental Science in high school. Of course, I had previous knowledge about climate change and the effect it had on our planet, but taking a class for a whole year, solely focusing on the problems of our climate, opened my eyes to the reality of the state of the planet.

- Lois B. NDMU, Class of 2028

Climate change is resulting in droughts, tropical storms, wildfires and floods. They disrupt and destroy habitat for all. I first learned about how climate change occurs during a high school Environmental Science class.

Ian Strickland - NDMU Class of 2028

I believe as a Christian, it is our moral obligation to treat the earth with love, just as we should to our neighbors. God created the earth with love and we have a responsibility to God as well as future generations to keep Earth as a safe and wonderful place to live.

Kiata F., Grade 8, Mother Seton Academy

To help address climate change, I try to recycle as much as possible and spread awareness about the dangers of climate change. I can do this by creating posters, participating in projects and asking others to pick up trash in their community.

Carter N., NDMU Class of 2028

My largest concern about our climate is the emissions that are produced by cars and other unclean forms of transportation. The gases emitted by gas-powered cars are incredibly harmful to our environment and can cause immense damage to our ozone layer. There are many different methods to counteract these emissions continuously being pumped into our air, such as electric vehicles, carpooling, public transportation, and biking.

Tyeise W. – Student, Caroline Center

There is a deep sense of gratitude in my faith that prompts me to take better care of the world around me. Whether through reducing waste, supporting sustainable practices, or advocating for climate action, I see these efforts as an expression of gratitude for the beauty and abundance of the Earth.

Matthew B. 11th Grade - Laureate College

My main concern about climate change today is the potential impact it can have on my generation and future generations as we go further in the 21st century. The unpredictable and increasingly severe climate seen in Canada today highlights that climate change is in fact an impactful and urgent global issue.

Rebecca C. - NDMU Class of 2028

“My faith has led me to the understanding and belief that God calls us to safeguard the environment he created for us. I believe it is each person’s individual responsibility to do what they can to help the environment. I believe that even small steps can make a difference, and that spreading awareness is the first and most important step in making a difference.”

Tiffany O - 7th Grader at Mother Seton Academy

A concern I have about climate is that it will soon get to a point where we are unable to  do anything to fix it. Something I’m doing to address climate change is conserving energy. I do this by turning off the lights in rooms that are not currently in use. 

Joann D - NDMU Class of 2027

“My faith plays a role in every aspect of my life, including climate issues. As stated in Genesis 2:15, God created humans to care for and cultivate the land He created…the earth should be treated as a treasure and not a commodity…The earth gives us so much, so we should do our part to ensure we can live on it for the foreseeable future.“