On July 3, 2025, Vatican officials announced the new rite, which allows worshippers to pray for the grace and capacity to safeguard the environment. This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of Pope Leo XIV to enhance and expand upon the environmental efforts initiated by his predecessor, Pope Francis, whose 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’” highlighted the urgency of caring for the planet.
“Through this Mass, the Church provides spiritual and communal support for our responsibility towards nature, our shared home,” Cardinal Michael Czerny noted during the announcement at a Vatican press briefing. The timing for the unveiling coincided with Pope Leo's expression of environmental concerns in an upcoming message for a prayer day on September 1. The Pope emphasized the urgent need for “environmental justice,” labeling it a pressing issue that encompasses broader social, economic, and human rights dimensions.
The idea of a dedicated Mass for environmental care developed under Pope Francis, who placed ecological issues at the forefront of his papacy. Cardinal Czerny remarked that there has been a persistent call for a liturgical approach to the ideas and teachings within “Laudato Si’.” The hope is that this new rite will inspire both individual and collective action in addressing the climate crisis and fostering a greater respect for creation.
“Through this Mass, the Church provides spiritual and communal support for our responsibility towards nature, our shared home,” Cardinal Michael Czerny noted during the announcement at a Vatican press briefing. The timing for the unveiling coincided with Pope Leo's expression of environmental concerns in an upcoming message for a prayer day on September 1. The Pope emphasized the urgent need for “environmental justice,” labeling it a pressing issue that encompasses broader social, economic, and human rights dimensions.
The idea of a dedicated Mass for environmental care developed under Pope Francis, who placed ecological issues at the forefront of his papacy. Cardinal Czerny remarked that there has been a persistent call for a liturgical approach to the ideas and teachings within “Laudato Si’.” The hope is that this new rite will inspire both individual and collective action in addressing the climate crisis and fostering a greater respect for creation.
