Jesuit Theologian Publishes New Lenten Reflections Book

A popular theologian has released a book of Lenten reflections with a special focus on the ecology.

In God’s Universe, Our Responsibility: 40 Days of Ecological Reflections, Jesuit Father Anthony Egan offers meditations and reflections in the light of the ecological and humanitarian crisis the earth faces.

The book is published by the Jesuit Institute as its annual Lent book.

Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, Fr Egan tackles the question of how faith and science both contribute to our understanding of the universe.

He explores the legitimate questions science asks about humanity and the universe.

“The text is a journey from the beginning to the present. It looks specifically at the place of human beings and our responsibility in taking care of our common home. This includes our responsibility to one another individually and corporately,” The Jesuit Institute said in a press release.

The book is intended to be accessible to anyone who seeks to make a meaningful journey through Lent.

“This is a mind-opening, down-to-earth, exploration of the intersection between faith and science,” according to reviewer Dr Martin van Nierop, managing director of Gondwana Environmental Solutions.

Themes addressed include creation, sin, relationships, suffering, betrayal, love and witness.

God’s Universe, Our Responsibility: 40 Days of Ecological Reflections includes poems, meditations on Scripture, and a question for reflection after each section.

It is aimed at both individuals and groups who seek to pray through Lent in a focused way.

“The text invites the reader to conversion—a conversion which becomes apparent when we take responsible action and adjust our lifestyles so that we become true stewards of all creation,” said Fr Russell Pollitt SJ, director of the Jesuit Institute.

The book is available from the Jesuit Institute for R120, excluding p&p. Contact Cynthia Ndala at admin@jesuitinstitute.org.za or 011 482-4237.