In this episode, Ben Yosua-Davis speaks with Jose Aguto, a passionate advocate for climate action deeply rooted in his Catholic faith. Together, they explore the intersection of moral responsibility, theology, and the Catholic Church’s response to the climate crisis.

Grounding:

This episode begins with a reading from Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home, written by Pope Francis, emphasizing the moral imperative to address climate change. The reading, shared by Peterson Toscano and Madeline Bugeau-Heartt, highlights humanity’s collective responsibility to care for creation and the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues.

Main Conversation:

Jose Aguto discusses his transition from secular policy work to faith-based advocacy for climate action, reflecting on how his Catholic faith provides moral grounding for addressing the climate crisis. He examines the significant influence of Pope Francis’ encyclicals, Laudato Si and Laudate Deum, and their call for ecological conversion and systemic change.

Key themes include:

• The role of moral and spiritual leadership in mobilizing communities.
• The challenges and opportunities within the American Catholic Church compared to global contexts.
• Inspiring stories of dioceses committing to net-zero emissions and engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Practical advice for initiating climate conversations that resonate across divides.

Next Steps:

• Engage in Lectio Terra: Reflect on scripture and nature through this contemplative spiritual practice. Learn more.
• Join the Catholic Climate Covenant: Stay updated with news and resources. Visit their website.
• Support Climate Organizations: Explore directories of faith-based and regional climate justice organizations, such as:
  • Blessed Tomorrow’s Directory (PDF)
  • Bentley University’s Climate Justice List
• Promote Philanthropy: Consider regular donations to local or global climate initiatives.

Additional Resources:

• Katharine Hayhoe’s TED Talk: Saving Us
• Collective Honesty and Complicated Hope: An Evening with Katharine Hayhoe, an event held by The BTS Center in May 2024
• Books: Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe and Singing the Psalms With My Son by Wilson Dickinson.
• Laudato Si and Laudate Deum

Jose Aguto is a seasoned advocate for climate action with over two decades of experience in legal and policy positions. Formerly the Associate Director of the Catholic Climate Covenant, he has worked to promote ecological conversion within the Catholic Church. His career includes roles at the Friends Committee on National Legislation and the National Congress of American Indians. Jose’s work emphasizes the integration of faith, social justice, and environmental stewardship.

Connect with the Catholic Climate Covenant