Spirituality and Earth Care: Are They Connected?

Spirituality and Earth Care: Are They Connected?

The October 2024 edition of the Kamayan para sa Kalikasan Forum delved into the intersection of spirituality and environmental stewardship, examining how these elements intertwine in addressing the urgent climate crisis. With a theme centered on “Spirituality and Earth Care: Are They Connected?”, the forum explored humanity’s spiritual and moral responsibilities in protecting the Earth.

Opening Segment

The session began with an invocation, featuring a prayer from Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ (Praise Be: On Care for Our Common Home). This moving prayer called upon the Creator to inspire collective action in rescuing the neglected and healing the Earth, setting a reverent and contemplative tone for the event.

Participants were welcomed with a brief overview of the house rules, followed by the Philippine National Anthem. Moderators Marie Marciano of SALIKA and Randy Oliva of Green Convergence introduced themselves and the forum, underscoring its legacy as a monthly environmental dialogue since 1990.

Victoria Segovia, President of Green Convergence, delivered the opening remarks. She highlighted the ongoing celebration of the Season of Creation, observed from September through October 4, extending to Indigenous Peoples Sunday on October 13. She recognized the invaluable role of Indigenous communities in sustainable environmental practices and affirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to honoring creation through this liturgical season.

Marciano outlined the event structure, which included expert presentations followed by an open forum for participant insights and questions. She warmly acknowledged the diverse audience comprising representatives from academia, religious orders, civic organizations, government agencies, and the private sector.

Session One: Interrelatedness of Spirituality and Earth Care

Resource Person:

Fr. Jose Ramon T. Villarin, SJ
Trustee and Director
Manila Observatory

Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ, a renowned climate scientist and theologian, commenced his presentation by differentiating between nature (kalikasan) and creation. He explained that while nature is often seen as an abstract entity, creation implies intentionality and a divine source. This distinction invites a profound spiritual perspective, fostering humility and gratitude for the universe as a gift from the Creator.

He reflected on the concept of stewardship, emphasizing that humanity’s role is not one of dominance but of care and responsibility. By recognizing creation as a divine gift, humans are called to cultivate an attitude of reverence rather than entitlement.

Fr. Villarin also discussed the challenges posed by technocratic mindsets, which often prioritize profit and efficiency over harmony with natural rhythms. He stressed the importance of rest and respecting the cycles of nature, aligning these practices with spiritual teachings.

In connecting spirituality and environmental care, he highlighted Pope Francis’ call to prioritize the marginalized—both people and ecosystems—as part of a holistic approach to caring for our common home. True love for God, he noted, is demonstrated through love for one’s neighbor and responsible environmental stewardship.

Insights and Reflections

Fr. Villarin further explored humanity’s biblical mandate to “care for and cultivate” the Earth. He contrasted this call for stewardship with the pitfalls of anthropocentrism, which often leads to exploitation and environmental degradation. Quoting from Genesis, he emphasized that stewardship is not just a duty but a privilege entrusted to humanity by God.

He called for discernment in human interactions with creation, urging participants to adopt new economic models that balance respect for nature with human development. He also advocated for making the “invisible” aspects of nature—such as clean air and biodiversity—visible in decision-making processes.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The forum concluded with an open forum where participants shared insights and posed questions. Discussions reinforced the central theme: spirituality is inseparable from environmental care. By integrating these aspects, humanity can address the dual crises of ecological degradation and spiritual disconnection.

The Kamayan para sa Kalikasan Forum reminded attendees of the urgency of collective action, grounded in humility, gratitude, and a shared responsibility to care for our common home. The dialogue exemplified the profound interconnectedness between spiritual principles and environmental sustainability.

Session Two: Universality of Caring for Creation

Resource Person:
Anthony James H. Vizmanos, PhD(c), MFSM, PFT
Head of Buddhist Literacy
Universal Wisdom Foundation-Buddhist Youth Group

The Earth and Living Beings: A Buddhist Perspective

“Ang lahat ng bagay ay magkaugnay…”
 “Everything is interconnected.”

This profound concept lies at the heart of Buddhist philosophy, encapsulated in the principle of Dependent Origination, or pratītyasamutpāda. This term describes the intricate web of interconnectedness that binds all beings and phenomena, emphasizing that nothing exists independently. Everything is part of a complex network of causality.

Interconnectedness and Karma

In Buddhism, this interconnectedness extends to the actions of all beings, whether sentient or non-sentient. Each action creates a ripple effect, influencing others and shaping outcomes through the principle of karma. Good deeds yield positive outcomes, while harmful actions result in negative consequences. This cause-and-effect relationship underscores the responsibility of each being to foster harmony with others and the environment.

Sentient and Non-Sentient Beings

Sentience Defined

Sentience in Buddhist thought depends on the Five Aggregates or Skandhas, as outlined in the Khandha Sutta. These aggregates are:

  1. Form (Rupa): The physical existence of a being.
  2. Sensation (Vedana): The ability to feel and experience.
  3. Perception (Samjna): Awareness of sensory input.
  4. Mental Formations (Samskara): Thoughts, emotions, and tendencies shaped by past lives or the present.
  5. Consciousness (Vijnana): The discernment and decision-making ability.

Sentience also involves the capacity to experience dukkha (suffering), samsara (rebirth), and the illusions of existence.

Caring for Non-Sentient Beings

Even non-sentient beings, such as plants, are respected in Buddhism. According to the Samannaphala Sutta, the Buddha taught that damaging plant life is against virtuous practice. Although plants lack sentience, they are living beings capable of propagating new life. Seeds, roots, cuttings, and buds are given careful consideration, as they hold the potential to create and sustain new flora. This reflects a deep reverence for all forms of life.

Sentient Beings in Lower Realms

Sentient beings in the lower realms include animals and other creatures that do not belong to the human realm or higher spiritual planes. In the Mahayana tradition, some animals are believed to possess Buddha-nature, the inherent potential to achieve enlightenment in future rebirths. These beings, exhibiting heightened sentience or human-like behavior, are viewed as part of the broader spiritual journey.

One example shared during the discussion was a video of a Theravāda monk engaging with his pet cat while studying the Dharma. By fostering such a relationship, the monk helps the cat manifest its Buddha-nature, thereby sharing merits and spiritual growth.

Life Release and the Ecosystem

A unique Buddhist practice known as life release involves freeing animals from captivity into the wild. However, this must be done responsibly:

  1. Only native and non-invasive species should be released.
  2. Animals must be returned to their appropriate habitats.
  3. Domesticated animals, instead of being released, should be adopted and cared for.

This practice exemplifies Buddhism’s commitment to preserving ecosystems while promoting compassion.

The Quandary of Creation: Cause and Condition

Buddhism does not embrace the concept of creation as understood in many religious traditions. Instead, it views existence through the lens of Cause and Condition. This perspective aligns with scientific principles like adaptation, natural selection, and ecological succession.

Living beings are shaped by their environments, and their existence is a response to the conditions they face. For example, changes in a habitat influence the state of its inhabitants, highlighting the cyclical and conditional nature of life.

Caring for Humanity: The Noble Eightfold Path

In Buddhism, care for oneself and others is guided by the Noble Eightfold Path. This path serves as a moral and ethical framework to alleviate suffering and achieve liberation:

  1. Right Understanding (Samma Ditthi): Grasping the truth of existence.
  2. Right Thought (Samma Sankappa): Cultivating positive intentions.
  3. Right Speech (Samma Vaca): Speaking truthfully and kindly.
  4. Right Action (Samma Kammanta): Acting ethically.
  5. Right Livelihood (Samma Ajiva): Pursuing work that does not harm others.
  6. Right Effort (Samma Vayama): Maintaining focus on positive development.
  7. Right Mindfulness (Samma Sati): Being present and aware.
  8. Right Concentration (Samma Samadhi): Focusing the mind for clarity and peace.

These principles encourage compassion, understanding, and respect, fostering harmony within individuals and communities.

Conclusion

Buddhism teaches that the interconnectedness of all beings—sentient and non-sentient—forms the foundation of existence. Caring for one another, whether a person, an animal, or a plant, creates ripples that affect the broader web of life. By recognizing this interconnectedness and practicing respect, compassion, and mindfulness, individuals can contribute to a more balanced and harmonious world.

Viewer Interaction: Insights on Nature, Values, and Spirituality

During the interactive portion of the webinar, Vizmanos engaged viewers in a thoughtful discussion on the profound relationship between technology, human values, and environmental stewardship. He explored how modern advancements influence younger generations and highlighted the need to reconnect children with nature to foster respect and appreciation for life in all its forms.

Vizmanos began by reflecting on how technology has reshaped how children perceive and interact with the world. With screens dominating much of their attention, children are becoming increasingly distanced from the natural environment. To counteract this, Vizmanos encouraged parents and guardians to actively expose their children to nature. Activities like visiting parks, hiking trails, or simply observing wildlife can instill in young minds a sense of peace, wonder, and responsibility for the environment.

He emphasized that nurturing a connection with nature is vital for developing compassionate and life-respecting values. Experiencing the tranquility of natural settings helps children appreciate the beauty and intricacy of ecosystems, fostering an ethic of care that extends to sentient beings. Teaching children to observe wildlife without harm and respect animals’ habitats lays the foundation for their stewardship of the planet.

Vizmanos further incorporated Buddhist principles, particularly the concept of karma, into the conversation. He explained how this philosophy underscores the interconnectedness of actions and outcomes: good deeds lead to positive effects, while harmful actions have detrimental consequences. This perspective invites individuals to consider how their treatment of the environment directly impacts their lives and the world around them.

Shifting to spirituality’s broader role in environmental care, Vizmanos remarked that most religions advocate for protecting the planet. He cited Buddhism’s teachings on interconnectedness and harmony with nature as a model for fostering a more balanced existence. He also offered practical guidance for visiting sacred spaces associated with environmental advocacy, noting the importance of respectful attire and an awareness of cultural symbols, such as a large metal marker used to welcome visitors.

The session underscored the importance of aligning spiritual principles, familial values, and environmental care to create a harmonious and sustainable future. By integrating these elements into daily life, Vizmanos argued, individuals can cultivate a deeper respect for nature while nurturing a sense of responsibility in future generations

Session Three: Sapat/Interconnectedness

Resource Person:
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz
International Indigenous Activist
Kankana-ey Igorot

Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, an esteemed international indigenous activist and former United Nations Special Rapporteur, explored the profound interconnectedness of spirituality, environmental stewardship, and cultural traditions. As a prominent leader, she shared insights from her work, including her role in drafting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Her discussion revolved around the responsibilities of indigenous communities in preserving ecosystems and the deep-rooted connection between spirituality and the care of the Earth.

The Seventh Generation Ethic:
Intergenerational Environmental Stewardship

Tauli-Corpuz emphasized the Seventh Generation ethic, a guiding principle in indigenous cultures that underscores the importance of environmental preservation for the well-being of future generations. She explained how indigenous teachings connect past, present, and future, with elders passing down knowledge to younger generations to ensure continuity.

This ethic manifests in rituals and cultural practices tied to the agricultural cycle, where communities offer gratitude and prayers for abundance. Ceremonies such as honoring the deceased also highlight respect for lineage and memory, as elders share stories that bind generations together. These traditions foster an enduring sense of responsibility toward the environment and future generations.

Cultural Values and Community Cooperation

At the core of Tauli-Corpuz’s discussion was the role of cultural values in nurturing relationships and fostering cooperation. Indigenous communities emphasize principles such as reciprocity, respect for elders, and mutual respect, which serve as the foundation of their social structures.

One notable practice is collective agricultural work, which exemplifies the importance of collaboration. By working together during planting and harvesting, communities achieve greater efficiency while strengthening bonds. Tauli-Corpuz also highlighted the shared moral principles across different belief systems, demonstrating the universality of these values in promoting harmony and social cohesion.

Community Rituals and Traditions

Rituals and traditions remain integral to indigenous life, particularly during significant milestones such as weddings and births. Weddings are intergenerational gatherings where families share stories, pass down traditions, and distribute inheritances. Similarly, childbirth rituals, including naming ceremonies, are communal events that celebrate new life and reinforce cultural values.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, these practices adapted to prioritize health and safety, illustrating the resilience of indigenous traditions in maintaining their cultural identity while responding to modern challenges.

Protecting Communal Resources: Banau Lake

Tauli-Corpuz shared a compelling story about Banau Lake, a sacred site central to the identity and livelihood of an indigenous community. When an individual attempted to privatize the lake by fencing it off, the community took collective legal action to defend their rights. Their success underscored the strength of customary laws in preserving communal resources and protecting sacred sites.

Customary laws, deeply rooted in cultural values, guide community practices and outline consequences for violations. These systems ensure the preservation of natural and cultural heritage while fostering unity and resilience.

Indigenous Governance and Identity

Central to Tauli-Corpuz’s discussion was the concept of governance within indigenous communities, guided by customary laws and cultural values such as inayan—a principle denoting forbidden actions. She described how these systems address offenses like theft and lying through community-led processes, ensuring accountability and rehabilitation.

Language also plays a vital role in preserving identity. Tauli-Corpuz stressed the need to protect indigenous languages, which carry the essence of cultural traditions. This aligns with the international decade of indigenous languages, a movement to safeguard linguistic heritage worldwide.

Spiritual Beliefs and Biodiversity Conservation

Indigenous spiritual beliefs about nature significantly contribute to biodiversity conservation. Tauli-Corpuz explained how natural elements, such as lakes and trees, are regarded as having spirits, requiring respect and care. This worldview has enabled indigenous territories to host some of the richest tropical forest biodiversity on Earth.

Through strong governance systems and values, indigenous communities prevent harmful practices like damming rivers, which would disrupt natural ecosystems. These practices not only protect the environment but also sustain livelihoods and cultural traditions.

Justice Systems and Cultural Accountability

Tauli-Corpuz highlighted the importance of community-based justice systems in promoting peace and addressing wrongdoing. She recounted a case of traditional punishment—banishment for a perpetrator of rape—which served as both a deterrent and a reflection of cultural values.

These traditional systems, she argued, are cost-effective, accessible, and rooted in cultural wisdom. They not only resolve conflicts but also reinforce environmental protection and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Tauli-Corpuz advocated for these practices as valuable models that could inspire broader global efforts toward peace, justice, and sustainable development.

Conclusion

Victoria Tauli-Corpuz’s insights illuminated the interconnectedness of spirituality, environmental care, cultural traditions, and governance in indigenous communities. By honoring their values and practices, indigenous peoples offer a profound example of how interconnectedness can guide humanity toward a more harmonious and sustainable future.

Question and Answer Portion: Highlights and Insights

The final segment of the forum transitioned into an engaging and reflective discussion, focusing on logistical details, participant feedback, and profound conversations around spirituality, environmental care, and cultural identity.

The session opened with a reminder about the evaluation form, which participants were encouraged to complete to provide valuable feedback for future forums. The process for obtaining a certificate of participation was outlined, requiring actual attendance and the submission of the evaluation form. Following this, participants were invited to join an open forum to share their thoughts, questions, and reflections.

One participant highlighted the enriching discussions, noting how the diverse perspectives shared complemented one another, deepening their understanding of interconnectedness.

Blending Traditional Values and Modern Technology

A thought-provoking discussion emerged on the integration of traditional values with modern advancements in technology. Tauli-Corpuz emphasized the evolution of indigenous practices, particularly the use of tools like GPS and GIS technology for mapping territories and conducting resource inventories. These technologies not only aid in environmental protection but also serve as a means of preserving cultural identity.

The conversation underscored the delicate balance between honoring traditional values and embracing beneficial modern developments. While adaptation is essential, communities were reminded to remain critical of technologies or practices that could harm ecosystems or cultural heritage. This integration also tied into the symbolic importance of the seventh day as a universal day of rest, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all creation.

Indigenous Education and Cultural Preservation

The discussion pivoted to the urgent need for incorporating indigenous education and values into mainstream curricula. Participants advocated for increased resources and support for indigenous languages and cultural storytelling, noting the critical role these elements play in identity formation and heritage preservation.

Suggestions included utilizing modern mediums such as film and music to engage younger generations, making cultural education both accessible and appealing. A critique of traditional values education was raised, urging the Department of Education to adopt an integrated approach that emphasizes linguistic diversity and cultural relevance across all subjects.

Spirituality, Love, and Faith

Another thread explored the intersection of spirituality, love, and faith, challenging conventional religious frameworks. Participants reflected on love as a spiritual force, even for those skeptical of organized religion. The concept of “Anonymous Christians” was introduced, suggesting that belief in love and humanity can itself be a valid spiritual path.

One participant shared a personal anecdote involving a poem that reimagined God as a benevolent force rather than a punitive figure. This conversation highlighted the rejection of oppressive religious ideologies while affirming a broader, inclusive understanding of spirituality.

Nature, Healing, and Spiritual Connections

The relationship between spirituality, environmental care, and personal well-being was another focal point. A speaker reflected on the phrase “rest well,” suggesting a belief in life beyond death and acknowledging the spiritual conflicts that atheists may experience.

A poignant story about the speaker’s nature-loving mother illustrated the healing presence of pets and the spiritual connection between humans and animals. This reflection led to broader discussions on the role of nature in fostering inner peace and the importance of influential figures in promoting environmental action.

Mindfulness, Spirituality, and Environmental Stewardship

Mindfulness emerged as a universal practice transcending religious boundaries, fostering both self-awareness and environmental consciousness. Participants discussed how meditation and focused breathing can reconnect individuals with their inner selves and promote respect for nature.

Experiences such as tree planting and sensory immersion in natural settings were shared, illustrating how mindfulness enhances the connection between humans and the environment. These practices were presented as essential tools for navigating the challenges of modern, fast-paced lifestyles.

St. Francis of Assisi and Ecological Compassion

The teachings of St. Francis of Assisi provided a spiritual lens for understanding the moral obligations of environmental stewardship. St. Francis, recognized as the patron saint of ecology, exemplified compassion for all living creatures, even earthworms. His reverence for nature served as an inspiring model for contemporary ecological care.

Participants also reflected on Pope Francis’s efforts to reconcile with indigenous communities, acknowledging the historical importance of indigenous environmental stewardship in global conservation efforts.

Addressing Planetary Crises with Spirituality and Justice

The forum concluded with a discussion on the intersection of spirituality, justice, and ecological integrity in addressing global crises. Participants explored the concept of interconnectedness, emphasizing compassion and equity for all living beings as fundamental to contemporary spirituality.

The conversation introduced the term “planetary crisis,” referencing urgent issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. The younger generation’s passion for justice and environmental care was highlighted as a hopeful sign of global progress. The Universal Responsibility Charter’s call for ecological integrity was also discussed, framing the spiritual responsibility to protect and restore the Earth’s ecosystems.

In closing, the session affirmed the presence of divine inspiration throughout the universe, offering hope and new pathways for collective ecological action. The forum left participants with a renewed sense of purpose, grounded in the interconnectedness of spirituality, environmental care, and cultural identity.

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