WelCom December 2022
To mark World Day of the Poor on November 13, Dr Mary Eastham and Dr Mary Nash held a workshop at Palmerston North’s diocesan centre about The Letter – a new documentary, directed by Emmy-winner Nicholas Brown. The film premiered at the Vatican on 4 October and can be viewed online at theletterfilm.org
The letter of the title is Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’, addressed to ‘all people of good will’ and urging an interconnected vision for humanity and the planet. The film is about Pope Francis’ letter of invitation to five people involved in different spheres of climate action.
The 80-minute feature focuses on how people at the grassroots level can bring about change. A diverse group of climate activists, Indigenous people, scientists and faithful meet with Pope Francis to talk about the environment.
In support of the Palmerston North workshop, the parish had held three preparatory screenings of the film. About 20 people took part in the workshop with Julie Randall providing additional support and music.
Following an opening prayer and hymn, participants said they hoped to learn more about The Letter, climate change and ways to contribute to saving mother earth.
In the documentary, the five recipients were filmed as they received the Pope’s letter. They were Arouna Kandé, a climate refugee from Senegal; Ridhiria Pandey, a voice of youth; Chief Dada Borari, from the Amazon in Brazil and ‘kaitiaki’ for the region; and two scientists, Robin Martin and Greg Asner, studying the health changes in coral in Hawaii.
Pope Francis spent time with each of them, passionately discussing the issues they brought to him, and in doing so he addresses all who watch documentary.
Mary Nash says, ‘I encourage everyone to watch The Letter on YouTube. Pope Francis’ words are inspiring. We plan a follow-up session. In the meantime, we encourage people to join groups already working in areas they are concerned about.’
For more information contact: Dr Mary Nash, egmanash@gmail.com or Dr Mary Eastham, maeastham23@gmail.com
Sources: Vatican News, Reuters
