Theme
In 2015, Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ was called “the most important document yet of this millennium” and “arguably the most important piece of intellectual criticism in our time.” In his latest apostolic exhortation, Laudate Deum, Pope Francis once again challenges the world to theology, vision, and action. This conference will take up the theme of ecological integrity in the Franciscan tradition. We invite papers on topics that promote ecological reflection, vision, and action, in the light of Laudate Deum. We are looking for the innovations that an integral Franciscan perspective adds to the work of a sustainable environment, and we seek to understand the dynamics that will interrupt failed policies and practices when it comes to the care of our common home.


Themes to be addressed may include, but are not limited to:
- Franciscan spirituality and the Sustainability Development Goals
- Franciscan engagements with the environment that are innovative and sustainable
- Franciscan forms of flourishing and fulfilment
- Franciscan environmental reflection, contemplation, and action
- Franciscan personal and organizational sustainability
- Franciscan interpretations of ecological crisis and conversion
- Franciscan practices that interrupt ecological despair and paralysis

Practical Matters
The editors of Franciscan Connections welcome paper proposals submitted in English. Abstracts should be kept as close to 100 words as possible.
Each paper should last 20 minutes, followed by 10 minutes of discussion.
Papers may be published in our Ecological Integrity and Franciscan Thought conference volume or on our international Franciscan blog Franciscan Connections.

Paper proposals must be submitted by 15 January 2024 to
David B. Couturier, OFM Cap. at: dcouturi@sbu.edu

More information
Please contact
Dr. Dr. Krijn Pansters k.pansters@tilburguniversity.edu
Fr. David B. Couturier, OFM. Cap dcouturi@sbu.edu

or go to www.franciscanconnections.com