Pilgrimage of Hope for Environmental and Racial Justice

The Office of Multicultural Ministry, together with the Archdiocesan Creation Care Team, will host a Pilgrimage of Hope for Environmental and Racial Justice.

The pilgrimage commemorates the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si’, the encyclical of Pope Francis concerning care for creation. During this Jubilee of Hope, the pilgrimage is meant to be a profound spiritual renewal that influences the environment, fostering the restoration of justice and righteousness. This transformation is essential for achieving lasting peace, which is the natural outcome of justice, bringing calm and security to our lives (cf. Isaiah 32:17). The Lord’s assurance that His people will dwell in peaceful and secure places emphasizes the deep connection between human well-being and the health of creation, illustrating that genuine peace and security arise when humanity aligns itself with God’s intended design for the earth.

The gathering will be held Saturday, September 6, at 10 a.m. at Chickasaw Park (1200 Southwestern Parkway) in Louisville. The pilgrimage will begin with a prayer service and presentation about Rubbertown, an industrial area in west Louisville. Participants will learn about the decades of air pollution and its disproportionate impact on west Louisville and southwestern Jefferson County. Following the presentation, the participants will walk to the park’s nature play area for prayer and reflection. The pilgrimage will continue along Southwestern Parkway to West Broadway and conclude at the Catholic Enrichment Center for closing prayer, a reception, and fellowship.

“This pilgrimage unites us in prayer and purpose,” said M. Annette Mandley-Turner, director of the Office of Multicultural Ministry. “As we walk, we remember neighbors who have suffered from environmental harm and reaffirm our call to care for God’s creation and one another.”

Registration for the reception is required by September 2. To register, or for more information, please contact Multicultural Ministry at (502) 471-2146 or email omm@archlou.org.