Explore the theme of ‘Universal Connection’ with special reference to the Climate Crisis in the Apostolic Exhortation ‘Laudate Deum’ of Pope Francis

Abstract

This study focuses on the concept of ‘Universal Connection’ expressed in the Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Francis ‘Laudate Deum’, which means ‘Praise God for all his creatures’ in the climate crisis. It is the Pope's plea for an urgent response against global warming, climate crises, and their impacts. It is a critical global social issue, and he condemns climate change denial. It is an extended and intensified version of the encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ since our inadequate responses to mitigate the crisis. As he repeatedly reiterates the conviction, ‘Everything is connected’, he emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and how poor creatures suffer due to climate catastrophe. ‘Universal connection’ means nothing in the world stands by itself. The life of the universe is an infinite web of connections. All living and non-living things are interconnected and interdependent, and their actions and interactions affect one another. No previous research has adequately explored the concept of interconnectedness in relation to the climate crisis in the exhortation. This paper aims to explore the theme of ‘universal connection’ of all beings and to analyze how that reality leads the vulnerable creatures to become the victims of climate crisis. It is a descriptive and analytical type of research that creates a critical reflection. This study is based on qualitative methodology. The study's findings reveal that connectedness is emphasized in the entire exhortation. The most vulnerable creatures of the earth endure the harsh consequences of the immense climate crisis due to their inseparable intrinsic connectedness.