The Catholic Bishop of Ho and Chairman of the National Peace Council, Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, SVD, has called on Ghanaians to adopt environmentally responsible lifestyles, warning that the growing effects of climate change are largely the result of human negligence and irresponsible environmental practices.
Speaking during the launch of the Diocesan Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi in the Ho Diocese, Bishop Fianu expressed concern over the worsening environmental crisis, stressing that humanity has a moral and spiritual obligation to protect God’s creation.
According to him, the increasing occurrence of climate-related disasters, particularly flooding in various parts of the country, should serve as a wake-up call for individuals and communities to change their attitude towards the environment.
Referring to the recent floods that affected parts of Ghana, including Accra, the Bishop described the disasters as clear reminders of humanity’s responsibility to care for the environment.
“The floods in Accra and elsewhere are a warning to us to learn to listen to the voice of God, to respect the environment in which we live, and to live harmoniously with God’s creation,” he stated.
Bishop Fianu attributed many of the environmental challenges confronting the country to irresponsible human activities, including the indiscriminate destruction of the natural environment and the failure to exercise proper stewardship over God’s gifts.
He emphasized that caring for the environment is not only a civic responsibility but also a Christian obligation rooted in faith and obedience to God.
Bishop Fianu urged individuals, families, institutions and communities to embrace environmentally friendly practices by protecting natural resources, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable lifestyles.
He noted that such actions would not only safeguard the environment for future generations but would also reflect genuine Christian stewardship and commitment to preserving God’s creation.
Bishop Fianu further encouraged Catholics and all people of goodwill to draw inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology, whose life exemplified love, humility and respect for all of God’s creatures.
He stressed that protecting the environment remains a shared responsibility requiring collective action from government, religious bodies, civil society and every citizen to address the growing threat posed by climate change.
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