On June 18, 2015, Pope Francis issued the encyclical "Laudato Si" (Praised be to You) in which he called on everyone to do what they can to care for our common home, the earth.

Bishop Pates says Iowa can play a role in the dialogue necessary to bring about positive change.

Diocesan priest and environmental theologian Father Robert "Bud" Granthas spoken at numerous events about the groundbreaking nature of "Laudato Si" and its implications.

St. John Paul II also talked about caring for the environment during his historic 1979 visit to Iowa. Here is his homily in which he called on people to be good stewards of the land.

Looking for some background on what the U.S. bishops have said about the environment? Check out this page on the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' website.