Transformative Liturgy Shaping an Ecological Spirituality

Abstract

This paper explores the role of liturgical worship in fostering an “ecological conversion” as envisioned by Pope Francis in Laudato sí. The discussion focuses on how liturgical worship helps participants to recognise their place within a transcendental horizon of meaning, to recover a sense of the rhythms of the natural world, to learn to perceive nature as “gift”, and to develop a Christian anthropology which understands human beings as part of creation. The conviction that liturgical celebrations can and should bring to expression horizons of meaning which nurture an ecological spirituality and encourage behavioural change, presents a task for liturgical theology: the objectification and evaluation of the mediation of meaning that takes place in the liturgical performance. Two case studies illustrate this concept: a Eucharistic prayer by Anglican Bishop Donald Philips and the poetic “Mass for the Earth” by Antjie Krog. Both examples demonstrate how liturgical prayer can deepen an awareness of creation and encourage a commitment to ecological care. Ultimately, the paper argues that an “ecumenical spirituality” should become a central element of Christian worship, permeating liturgical practice to inspire a more profound and enduring ecological responsibility.