Series on papal reflections about Earth's future as our common home scheduled to begin Jan. 6

Come, learn the importance of preserving this legacy for yourself and future generations by attending "Laudato Sí; On Care for Our Common Home," a six-part series about this encyclical by Pope Francis beginning Wednesday, Jan. 6, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville. Sessions will meet from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27, and Feb. 3 and 17.

Cost for the series is $15, and alternative arrangements can be made for those facing financial challenges.

The series is characterized as "the new appeal from Pope Francis addressed to 'every living person on this planet' for an inclusive dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our humanity and planet," according to Chari Rosales, director of St. Thomas Adult Faith Formation & Spirituality (S.T.A.F.F.S.). Rosales will facilitate the series.

In "Laudato Sí" Pope Francis calls on the entire world to acknowledge the urgency of both the societal and environmental challenges it faces. "The Pope also invites all of us to join him in embarking on a new path," said Rosales. She added, "Enveloped in both hope and resolve, the encyclical looks to our common future with candor and humility."

Rosales, an interesting speaker with a keen understanding and appreciation for her subject matter, enlivens her presentations with vivid clarity and intensity. She has been active in church ministry for three decades, especially in the areas of liturgy, Scripture study and religious history.

Reservations to assure adequate seating for this program are requested by Jan. 4. For reservations and additional information about "Laudato Sí; On Care for Our Common Home" contact Marge Coronado, St. Thomas religious education assistant, at mcoronado@stapostle.org or (630) 355-8980, ext. 118.

St. Thomas the Apostle, a parish of the Diocese of Joliet, strives to bear the Good News of God's unconditional love to all generations through worship, faith formation, witness and service. Organized in 1984, the St. Thomas faith community numbers more than 3,700 households of more than 11,200 people. Complete news and information on parish events, guest speakers and special programs is available at www.stapostle.org. For general parish information please call (630) 355-8980.