Ecological Conversion and Its Pastoral Ministry as a Stipulation for True Reconciliation

Abstract

This article presents ecological conversion as a necessary condition for true reconciliation in light of the Apostolic Exhortation Reconciliatio et Paenitentia and other papal statements. Ecological conversion is imperative because sin affects man’s relationship with the created world. The essence of ecological conversion depends primarily on acknowledging the truth about man’s role in the world and the fact that there is a limited amount of natural resources. The Church does not confine itself to theoretical deliberations; rather, She desires to guide pastoral reconciliation, in which the sacraments, catechesis, and dialogue with other views and concepts of the world play a particular role.