May 22 | International Day for Biological Diversity
In the framework of the International Day for Biological Diversity, theThe Ecclesiastical Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA), along with the Panamazonian Ecclesiastical Network (REPAM), the Amazonian Bilingual Intercultural Education Network (REIBA) and the Amazonian University Program (PUAM),They raise their voices to celebrate and defend the extraordinary wealth of life that inhabits the Amazonian territory. This vital space is not only one of the lungs of the planet, but also a sacred sanctuary where Creation manifests itself with beauty, complexity, and wisdom.
Biodiversity: gift and challenge
The Amazon is not just a geographical region. It is a living mosaic that houses millions of species of plants, animals, and microorganisms—many still unknown to science—and is home to indigenous peoples who have safeguarded this wealth for centuries, living in profound harmony with the land, water, and forest.
Biological diversity, cultural diversity
In the Amazon, biological and cultural diversity walk hand in hand. The worldviews of Indigenous peoples teach us that everything is connected: there is no separation between human beings and nature, but rather a relationship of reciprocity, respect, and gratitude. As the Church with an Amazonian Face, we recognize this ancestral wisdom as a necessary gift for a new relationship with our Common Home.
As Pope Francis reminds us in Laudato Si’, “everything is connected.” The loss of biodiversity also entails the loss of ancient wisdom, languages, spiritualities, and cultures. Therefore, defending biodiversity also means defending life in all its forms.
A call for ecological conversion
On this day, we renew our commitment to an integral ecology, promoting a pastoral approach that heeds the cry of the earth and the cry of the people. Caring for biodiversity is neither a luxury nor an option: it is an ethical, spiritual, and pastoral urgency. It is a call to transform our ways of life, consumption, and social organization.
We invite all communities, ecclesial networks, and territorial organizations to celebrate life in the Amazon and strengthen their commitment to its defense. Let us foster an ecological spirituality that springs from the territory and is nourished by synodality, discernment, and hope.
May this May 22nd inspire us to care for biodiversity as a living expression of God’s dream for the world: a Creation in justice, beauty, and harmony.