Within the framework of COP30, the particular Churches of the Global South gathered at the Amazon Museum in Belém to accompany the prophetic voice of the cardinals present at the summit. In this context, the Holy Father Leo XIV sent a profound message of encouragement, inviting a renewed commitment to the care of our Common Home.
The Pope expressed his closeness to the gathered Churches, emphasizing that the Amazon continues to be “a living symbol of creation with an urgent need for care.” He thanked the communities for choosing hope and action over despair, building a global communion that works for climate and socio-environmental justice.
While acknowledging that progress has been made, the Holy Father emphasized that “it is not enough” and called for a renewal of hope that is expressed in concrete actions, beyond speeches and aspirations.
A cry we cannot ignore
In his message, Leo XIV recalled that creation cries out through floods, droughts, storms, and extreme heat waves, severely affecting millions of people. “One in three lives in great vulnerability,” he said. For them, climate change is not a future risk, but a daily reality that threatens their dignity and survival.
The Pope warned that it is still possible to keep global temperature rise below 1.5°C, but the window of opportunity is rapidly closing. Faced with this challenge, he recalled that as stewards of creation, believers are called to act with speed, faith, and prophecy, protecting the gift that God has entrusted to humanity.
A call for political will and true leadership
Pope Francis affirmed that the Paris Agreement remains a fundamental tool for protecting life and the planet, and that it is not the Agreement that is failing, but rather the insufficient response of the international community and the lack of political will on the part of some actors.
“True leadership involves service,” he said, calling for more decisive climate decisions that will enable the construction of more just, robust, and sustainable economic systems.
He emphasized that strong climate policies are an investment in a more stable future for all.
Global unity for creation
The Holy Father invited everyone to walk alongside scientists, social and religious leaders from all nations, recalling that “we are guardians of creation, not rivals for its goods.” He urged sending a clear and global message of solidarity with the Paris Agreement and climate cooperation.
He also expressed his hope that the Amazon Museum in Belém will be remembered as the place where humanity chose cooperation over division and denial.
The message concluded with a special blessing for those who work tirelessly in defense of our Common Home:
“May God bless you in your efforts to continue caring for God’s creation.”