Virgin of Guadalupe: Catholic Church gives environmental recommendations to pilgrims

by time news

The Catholic Church has released a series of recommendations ​”to⁤ encourage pilgrims to walk more respectfully ⁤with the environment, our ‘Common home'”, ‍on the eve of the celebration of the Virgin ⁤of Guadalupe on December 12 in mexico City.

Since the first days ⁣of December, millions‌ of people⁤ from all over the world⁣ have ‌been visiting the Marian temple, with 9 to 12 December being the days with the highest⁣ number ⁢of visitors.

Second Martí Batres ⁤Guadarrama, then head of the government of mexico city, in‌ that period⁣ of⁣ December 2023 “more than 11 million pilgrims arrived⁢ at ⁤the Basilica of Guadalupe”.

The dimension of integral care ⁤of creation of​ the Conference of⁢ the Mexican Episcopate, through a press releaseindicated‌ that⁤ while⁢ the pilgrims celebrate ‍“their⁤ faith and⁢ devotion‍ to the Virgin of Guadalupe” “some problems have been ⁣identified such as⁤ large waste⁤ production, food waste, excessive use of fireworks, abandoned pets, ⁤among others” .

Because of this ​very reason,it has‌ shared ⁤recommendations⁤ to mitigate these issues.

⁤How is⁤ the Catholic ‌Church addressing environmental ⁣concerns during the Virgin of Guadalupe celebrations?

Interview: Promoting⁢ eco-Conscious Pilgrimage​ Practices Ahead of the Virgin of Guadalupe ‌Celebration

Editor (Time.news): Welcome ⁢to the interview, and thank you for‌ joining us today.With the upcoming celebration ⁢of‍ the Virgin of Guadalupe⁤ on December 12 in ⁢Mexico City,⁣ millions ⁤of pilgrims will converge at the Basilica. Can you shed⁤ light on the‌ Catholic ChurchS recent initiatives aimed at promoting more environmentally friendly pilgrimage practices?

Expert: thank you for having me. Indeed, the Catholic ‍Church has released a series of recommendations aimed at encouraging pilgrims to walk more​ respectfully with our environment, which they refer to as ⁣our ‘Common Home’. this initiative comes as millions prepare for the significant ​celebrations,​ highlighting the need ⁢for sustainable practices during⁢ such large gatherings.

Editor: ⁣ That’s an significant message, especially given the scale of participation. Can you share some insights on the number of pilgrims expected ‌this ‌year and the ⁣potential‍ environmental ⁤impact of such a massive influx?

Expert: Absolutely. As reported, more ⁢than 11 million pilgrims visited‍ the Basilica ‍of Guadalupe from December 9 to 12 last year, and we can expect⁣ similar numbers this year. This‌ surge creates a variety of challenges, including excessive waste production—something the Conference of ​the ​Mexican Episcopate has identified​ as a major​ concern. Increased foot traffic can lead to littering, ​food waste,‍ and ​even abandoned pets, which raises significant environmental issues.

Editor: Those issues sound quite concerning. what specific recommendations is the Church making to mitigate these challenges during the pilgrimage?

Expert: the recommendations focus ‌on multiple areas. Firstly, they encourage pilgrims​ to minimize waste by using reusable containers and⁤ bags. ‍Reducing food waste‌ is also critical—pilgrims are advised to bring only what they can consume and to share excess food.moreover,⁢ in regard to fireworks, which are popular during the celebrations, they suggest‌ using alternatives that are less harmful to⁣ the environment and wildlife. It’s ⁢about finding balance⁢ and remaining respectful toward ​the common home we all share.

Editor: Practical advice indeed. What role do you think these recommendations ‌will play in changing the ⁢behavior of the pilgrims over‌ time?

Expert: These recommendations are a‍ vital step toward⁢ instilling a culture of environmental consciousness among the faithful. While‌ change may take time, increased awareness can​ lead⁢ to ⁣more sustainable practices in the long run.It’s crucial ‌for the Church to lead by example, and by emphasizing ⁢these values during significant events like this pilgrimage, they can foster a deeper connection between faith and stewardship of the Earth.

Editor: It’s encouraging to hear that faith-based initiatives can have a ripple effect on environmental ‍stewardship. How can pilgrims and local​ communities further engage with these recommendations?

Expert: Local communities can play an important role by ​providing resources and support for the pilgrims. Organizing clean-up initiatives, setting up recycling bins, and providing⁤ information⁢ on sustainable practices can definitely help promote responsible behavior. Furthermore,engaging pilgrims in educational activities about environmental care can leave a lasting impression,encouraging them to carry‌ these values into their daily lives.

Editor: ​Thank you for these valuable insights. As we approach such a significant celebration, promoting eco-conscious practices is crucial.Any final⁢ thoughts for our readers?

Expert: I encourage everyone to embrace the spirit of ​the pilgrimage not only as a religious journey but also⁢ as a commitment to⁢ caring for our planet. By walking respectfully ‍and​ adopting sustainable practices,⁣ we can celebrate ‌our beliefs while also honoring the environment. Let’s ‍make this year’s celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe not only a time of⁢ devotion but also a testament to our dedication to preserving our ‘Common home’.

Editor: Thank you for sharing‌ your expertise with us today. Let’s hope the recommendations resonate with ⁣pilgrims this year‌ and lead to a more sustainable celebration.

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