November 26. In very recent times there have been many of the events that Jesus mentioned when he spoke of the end times.  Earthquakes, fires, famines and disease happen and there is a constant state of war somewhere in the world.  But these things have also been happening for the last 2000 years and people have always debated whether the end is near.  What is becoming more marked today is a greater awareness of how we, humankind, are contributing to these events by our actions and lifestyles, and in particular the destruction of our environment.  Pope Francis in his encyclical LAUDATO SI calls on us to look ahead and protect the environment which he calls OUR COMMON HOME, irrespective of how long it will remain our home before the 2nd Coming. 

Reflect, share, act. Scripture: “When you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for this must first take place, but the end will not be at once.”  From Luke 21:5-11.  Pope  Francis: When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities, it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected.  LS 117 Eco-tip and prayer:  Creator God in this month of commemoration of loss and death comfort us in our pain and strengthen us in our understanding that you never abandon us and care for each of your creatures day by day.