A NEW ASTEROID ?

THE NATURAL EVOLUTION

Over the course of Earth’s evolution, which began more than 4 billion years ago, countless species of plants—and later, animals—have emerged. It began—from molecules that grew very slowly and became increasingly complex, in a way that is still not fully understood—with extremely small, single-celled organisms, such as microbes, bacteria, and algae, all of which lacked a distinct nucleus but already possessed the potential for growth, differentiation, reproduction, and fusion. From there, more complex organisms emerged, in which a distinct cell nucleus also developed. That was a huge leap forward and gave rise to an astonishing number of variations in increasingly complex organisms. Scientists readily speak of thousands, even tens of thousands, of species, soon in this emergence.

DEVELOPMENT OF SPECIES

That was the beginning of an evolutionary process, the “results” of which we now see, after billions of years: the unimaginable diversity of plants and animals.
And that diversity is further differentiated according to the “environment.” In the many different parts of our world—with varying climates, soil types, humidity levels, temperatures, and so on—entirely different plants and animals have also emerged. What you encounter in your own environment is only an extremely small fraction of what has come into existence and still lives today.

We’ve all heard of Charles Darwin, who, after extensive research during various sea voyages, wrote his famous book in 1859: *On the Origin of Species*, in which he explains how species develop and adapt over the centuries. The book concludes—in a “non-scientific” manner—with a paean to the unimaginable diversity, beauty, and intelligence of nature.
Darwin also observed how species succeed one another: new species gradually replacing earlier ones because they harmonize even better with their environment or are better adapted to it. His examples of the development of different beak shapes in finches in response to varying needs are widely known.

SPECIES ARISE AND DISAPPEAR

Darwin and countless other researchers have already described not only how species arose and evolved, but also how many species have disappeared. As we know, this applies to human species as well. Homo sapiens, to which we count ourselves, was preceded by a whole series of earlier species, such as Homo faber, Homo erectus, and Homo habilis, which in turn evolved from one of the primate species.
This alone is so impressive!
And to realize that plants—and the animals that evolved from them—had already existed for many millions of years before the first hominids “appeared” some 200,000 years ago.
These have all been very natural and gradual processes, spanning millions of years.

As a natural part of the evolutionary process, one species or another becomes extinct over time. The species reaches the end of its evolutionary trajectory and slowly dies out. The resulting gap provides space for another organism to settle there and evolve. Over millions of years, the natural background rate of extinction was approximately one to five species per year.

Although the exact number of plant and animal species on our present planet remains unknown and scientific counting methods vary, a widely discussed study currently estimates that there are a total of 8.7 million known species, of which approximately 6.5 million live on land and 2.2 million in water. It is generally agreed that these figures fall far short of the actual number of species on Earth. Many species, particularly those with a smaller range and especially those of very small size, have not yet been discovered or studied.

But just imagine all the species we can already easily see:
Bat,  cat, rat, dog, pig, fox, baboon … blackbird, blue jay, goldfinch, scarlet macaw, white-tailed cockatoo, red-tailed hawk  … daisy, rose, petunia, poppy, lilac, buttercup, crocus,  ... ant, bee,  cockroach, fly, butterfly, wasp,   ... eel, perch, trout, swordfish, herring, tuna, cod, ... apple tree, oak, maple, willow, magnolia, sequoia,  ... and so on, and so on.
Truly, as the psalm says: “The earth is full of Your creatures!” (104:24)

CATASTROPHES

Over all those millions of years, there have also been quite a few “catastrophes” (extinctions), which caused much—and sometimes nearly all—life to disappear—only to see new and even much more diverse life emerge afterward. Incidentally, these “catastrophes” unfolded very gradually over periods of tens of thousands of years—and even longer—during which entirely new forms and species developed, sometimes initially “hidden” or indirect. The power and creativity of life are unimaginable.

The most “recent” extinction is probably the best known. That catastrophe took place about 66 million years ago and did indeed begin with a sudden event. Quite a few movies have depicted the impact of an asteroid on a part of our planet that is now Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. You can see (the traces of) the enormous crater, several kilometers wide. After that massive impact, nearly the entire Earth was plunged into darkness due to the enormous amount of dust that spread almost worldwide and persisted for decades. It became dark and cold (because the sun’s rays could no longer penetrate the atmosphere), and alongside so many other animals, the (large) non-flying dinosaurs in particular, perished. This dramatic and global event had profound consequences for the plant kingdom and, above all, for the animal kingdom. Because the sun was blocked for so long, many plants—which rely on sunlight for photosynthesis—could no longer survive. And a great many animals, which in turn depend on plants for food and require the oxygen that plants produce as a byproduct of photosynthesis, also became extinct.

In the millions of years following that colossal impact, life demonstrated its enduring resilience, and a (further) abundance of plants and animals developed once again. This ultimately became the world in which, some two centuries ago, Charles Darwin made his notes, filled with amazement and wonder.

THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

In Darwin’s time, a new phenomenon began to develop with full force in England and other countries of Western Europe—and from there, in North America as well: large-scale industrial activity, driven in large part by James Watt’s earlier invention of the modern steam engine.

This development had enormous consequences, not only for people, trade, the economy, and so on, but also for the plant and animal worlds:
- The great demand for wood for fuel and construction placed an enormous strain on the forests. A great deal of “green” space was also sacrificed for buildings and roads—and the habitat of many animal species became increasingly restricted.
- Industrial waste products could not (yet) be recycled and were often discharged into rivers, ultimately polluting seawater as well, which became increasingly acidified.
- The fuels used for energy generation—primarily coal, as well as gas derived from that coal and the increasingly accessible petroleum—not only produced abundant energy through combustion but also byproducts such as carbon dioxide, methane, particulate matter (soot), and massive amounts of waste material that we still often see in the “coal heaps” near (former) coal mines.
The effects of these gases are now widely known. In the upper atmosphere, they form a sort of “blanket” around the Earth, preventing it from adequately dissipating the heat radiated by the sun, causing the Earth as a whole to continue warming. This results in widespread climate change across our entire planet. In fact, this change is occurring so rapidly and has such a profound impact on livability that many plants and animals cannot keep up. In the past, adaptations to climate change took tens of thousands of years; now, they are happening over the course of decades!

OTHER FACTORS

In addition to these factors that threaten the survival and diversity of plants and animals (habitat loss, pollution, rising temperatures), there are other factors that severely harm the populations and diversity of plants and animals. These include, in particular:
- The introduction and impact of invasive species. These are plant and animal species that do not belong in their new environment and cause significant damage there. They lack natural predators in that environment and displace—or at least threaten—the native plants and animals of a given area. They therefore vary greatly from one region to another.
- Lack of genetic variation: if the gene pool becomes too small due to a reduced population size (as a result of overhunting, overfishing, etc.), a species loses its natural resilience—and eventually becomes extinct.
- Poisoning caused by the control of “pests” (e.g., insects or plants) using pesticides and/or herbicides. This not only poisons the visiting insects or the seeds and shoots of unwanted plants, but also indirectly affects the consumers of the food produced.
The sharp decline in bird populations is one of the most telling signs.

All these factors combined are causing not only a decline but even the extinction of many plant and animal species.

EXTINCTION

This extinction is particularly serious because of the essential, vital interdependence that is now being disrupted. Some researchers consider the (massive) loss of biodiversity to be just as catastrophic in the long term as climate change, because vital ecosystems are becoming impoverished and dysfunctional (e.g., natural predators that maintain balance e.g., in forests, are disappearing) and food chains are collapsing, losing variety, dynamism, and resilience (e.g., reduced resistance to drought), causing produce to become less healthy (e.g., not fully ripe) or less appealing or more difficult to harvest, etc.

Every species of plant and animal inhabits an ecological niche that provides it with food and shelter. It draws from this niche and, in turn, gives back to the land, water, or air of its habitat.
Through interaction with other organisms in its geographic area, each species forms an integral part of an ecosystem, such as a marsh, forest, desert, mountainous region, coastal area, tundra, prairie, coral reef, and even a city.
In this environment, each species fulfills the essential task of producing the next generation. Taken together, the various species form a web of life that spans the entire Earth and is the defining characteristic of our planet.

Today, the Earth is experiencing what many call the sixth mass extinction of species. According to a groundbreaking 2019 study by the United Nations, more than one million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction in the coming decades—and a great many have already gone extinct in a relatively short period of time.
The Earth is currently experiencing the greatest loss of species since the dinosaurs. Such a dangerous depletion of the natural world has never before occurred in the entire history of the species Homo sapiens on this planet. We must acknowledge: NOW WE ARE THE ASTEROID !

A HORRIFYING EVENT

Let’s face the awe-inspiring reality of extinction. When a species goes extinct, it’s not just an individual that dies, but an entire lineage—a unique tapestry of pulsating life that emerged through the process of evolution and exists with unique grace within the ecological community. The horror is that once a species goes extinct, it can never return. There are no more babies, no more eggs, no more seeds. The disappearance is irreversible.
Since evolution requires a flow of genes from ancestors in the past to descendants in the future, their species is permanently severed, bringing the curtain down for good. “Death cuts off life; extinction cuts off birth.” A tear is ripped in the fabric of life on the planet. We should hold funerals.

The extinction of species usually goes unnoticed. They simply die out as a result of habitat loss, pollution, or food shortages. Observers note over many years that their numbers are steadily dwindling, that they are less lively, vigorous, or fertile, until they finally become inaudible or untraceable.

Estimates—which, incidentally, vary widely—indicate that at least one hundred (100!) species of plants or animals disappear every day. Unbelievable!
That would amount to around 35,000 per year—compared to the natural historical rate of extinction of 5 per year.

In the first part of our twenty-first century alone, a great number of various species of plants and animals have gone extinct, such as certain species of ibex, pumas, rhinos, turtles, frogs, tree snails, woodpeckers, and leopards, as well as mussels and freshwater fish, and also various species of shrubs, flowers, and grasses. You can find a wealth of information—often accompanied by beautiful photos of the extinct species—by entering search terms such as “species extinction…” on the internet. You can then narrow your search by time period (e.g., the last year or the last 10 years), your own country or another country, a specific geographic region (e.g., South America), and also by a specific group, such as insects, mammals, fish, birds, grasses, mosses, palms, ...

You’ll find many interesting details about that plant or animal, as well as the likely causes of its extinction. It can be deeply moving to see all that beauty and goodness—all those creative forms of life—that have all disappeared.
As a starting point for your search, here are just a few suggestions: the IUCN’s “Red Lists” at www.iucn.org  or, for mammals specifically, on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_recently_extinct_mammals ] or the International Fund for Animal Welfare: www.ifaw.org ]

RELIGIOUS REFLECTION

People of faith are just as concerned about the loss of so much life and so many species as others. They see and experience the incredible richness and beauty of all of nature— from what we call inanimate matter to the ultimate flowering of evolution in humanity, along with the thousands of forms in between - as a manifestation of the Creator’s surpassing goodness, who stands at the origin of all that exists, lives, and “radiates” with inner beauty and meaning.

Pope Francis, who recognizes the tragedy of these vanished creatures, makes a striking religious statement about extinction in his encyclical *Laudato Si*:

“Every year, thousands of plant and animal species disappear that we will never know, that our children will never see, because they have been lost forever. The vast majority go extinct for reasons related to human activities. Because of our actions, thousands of species will no longer glorify God by their very existence, nor convey their message to us. We do not have that right.” (LS 33)

By driving species to extinction, we humans not only destroy unique, beautiful, and important creatures that play a key role in the web of life, and disrupt the balance of our planet; we also silence the praise of God. And we erase religious knowledge about the Creator of us all.

This religious teaching evokes a strong ethical commitment. If believers truly realized that extinction dims the glory of God on earth and nullifies nature’s revelatory message, that conviction could unleash a powerful motivation for conservation.
To further emphasize this point, Laudato Si’ describes how devastation should affect us: “God has bound us so closely to the world around us that we can almost feel the drying up of the soil into a desert as a physical ailment, and the extinction of a species as a painful deformity” (LS 89).
What an extraordinary idea. The loss of a species should affect us as if our own body had been injured, as if we ourselves had lost a limb.

JOINING FORCES:

One might think that pure human self-interest would be enough to spur efforts to halt this extinction. An impressive collection of millions of species, which has evolved over millions of years, has made the Earth an extremely fertile place, suitable for the flourishing of the human species.

A continuing loss of species is beginning to undermine this life-supporting system and poses a threat to human well-being, both now and in the future. The damage affects indigenous peoples, who have a spiritual and cultural connection to the land, plants, and animals. In fact, it threatens the livelihoods of billions of people who depend on often specific species of plants and animals for food, fuel, medicine and income, among other things. And it weakens every ecosystem on which we humans depend for our survival. In the words of the UN Secretary-General in 2022: “We are committing suicide by proxy.”

However, mass extinction is not inevitable! Since humans are responsible for this extinction, we can also do something about it.
More and more scientists, activists, concerned citizens—young and old—government officials, economists, humanists, poets, and artists are committed to protecting nature.

By consciously reflecting on the necessity and richness of biodiversity—which is now seriously threatened—people of faith in particular—and there are many more than just (the) Christians ! — can draw from a deep well of energy: the realization that all of this is a great gift and that we humans are, first and foremost, fellow inhabitants in a community of creation; co-inhabitants who are privileged to enjoy its riches and who bear an additional responsibility.
Faith and trust in a loving God who is ever-creating, gives ecological commitment an additional impetus.

MANY OPPORTUNITIES

Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in all sorts of ways:
You can get involved hands-on, or offer moral and financial support, or express your sympathy and appreciation through your interactions with others, or deepen your own knowledge and thereby grow in your commitment.
Everyone—sick or healthy, old or young—we can all contribute!

Here are a few examples of ways you can get involved—whether actively, by offering support, or simply by showing interest:

* Support one or more of the many groups and organizations dedicated to nature conservation: read their magazines, offer moral or financial support, and try to get involved in a practical way if possible. They’re easy to find online, and there are likely one or more in your area or situation.

* Protect natural areas: ensure proper management of forests, wetlands, heathlands, and other valuable ecosystems—and, almost as a matter of course, limit deforestation and promote sustainable forestry.

* Restore damaged natural areas: plant trees (or shrubs). Start close to home and, if possible, help restore the banks of streams and rivers—thereby restoring habitat for plants and animals.
Creating food forests (the combination of forestry and food cultivation) is one of the newer and highly effective forms of nature conservation and promoting biodiversity.

* Reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides; use less (or no) synthetic fertilizer, and promote land use and sustainable agricultural methods that consciously support nature. Use organic fertilizers and natural “predators,” which help maintain a healthy balance.

* Prevent pollution: Reduce plastic waste, chemical pollution, and discharges into soil, air, and water. For example, on household level, examine cleaning and cosmetic products that contain toxic or environmentally harmful substances, such as microplastics.

* Combat climate change: Focus on tackling the root cause: greenhouse gas emissions. This can be done effectively by conserving energy and, whenever possible, using renewable energy sources (wind, water, geothermal).

* Combat invasive species: Avoid plants and animals that displace native species. This may require some research specific to your local situation.

* Increase wildlife corridors: Build ecoducts and green corridors so that animals can move safely between natural areas.

* Promote - if you are in the position - sustainable fishing and hunting by establishing catch quotas to prevent overfishing and illegal hunting.

* And last but not least: raise awareness and provide education—inform people about the importance of biodiversity and encourage nature-friendly behavior, such as creating gardens rich in plants and flowers and purchasing sustainable products.

By combining these (and other) measures, governments, businesses, and citizens can work together to make a significant contribution to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity.
There are ways for virtually everyone to contribute.
I hope also for you, dear reader !

What do you think ? Just tell me: j.muijtjens@debeyart.net
Thank you !


Johan Muijtjens
October 2026

FROM DISSENT TO POSITIVE MOMENTUM

 DISSENTING VOICES

There are many dissenting voices to be heard—voices that threaten to discourage us. I’ve mentioned them before, and everyone concerned with the well-being of our beautiful world is familiar with that list.
Those dissenting voices — including the question, “Does all our own ‘small’ effort really make a difference?” — continue to echo in the background.
I can’t undo that unpleasant feeling.
But I can add something to it—something that helps me maintain balance.

LIVING IN A RECEIVING MANNER

My experience is that when I live in a more receptive way—trusting that what is good will come to me—and when I live with greater curiosity, eager to discover what is actually possible—I see much more clearly, not what frustrates me, but what is truly within my capabilities. That, then, is what is actually asked of me. Then I can no longer escape without commitment because “it’s all pointless anyway,” or because others aren’t doing anything, or because it’s all far too big and complicated.
When I let go of my distrust or my anger toward others or the doomsday stories—and join the countless people of good will, each of whom wants to make their own contribution—something happens within me—just as I described last week. 
Then I regain my “enthusiasm”, my liking to involve myself —enthusiasm in that deep sense of experiencing joy and meaning.
Then confidence grows, if I, like all people of good will, try to do what is within my power with care and clarity, that then, what I engage in will be really good and will give extra momentum to a positive movement. We don’t see the end result, but that fruit is invisibly built into this positive movement.

A POSITIVE MOVEMENT

Speaking about a momentum that causes a positive movement ... 
We now are  halfway through the SEASON OF CREATION, which ends with the feast of St. Francis on October 4; Saint Francis, who in his Canticle of the Sun thanks God for Sister WATER, whom he calls very useful and humble, precious and chaste...

This year’s theme for the Season of Creation is: LIVING WATER. Living water is one of the greatest gifts we have received. It is the very condition of life for everything that lives—from microorganisms, through all plants and animals, and thus also for us humans. Water is extremely precious, and it is in grave danger due to large-scale pollution, acidification—particularly of the oceans—and scarcity, all of which cause incredible harm to people, animals, and plants.

LIVING WATER

This month, we are urgently encouraged to treat this precious elixir of life with the utmost care. Not only sparingly, but also respectfully, by preventing all unnecessary pollution. This is a matter of global importance, which is one of the highest priorities for an organization like the United Nations.
And living water is precisely something to which we can all truly contribute, not only materially but also spiritually, particularly by using water gratefully (e.g. saying thank you when you drink a glass of water) and by remaining mindful of the efforts of so many people who work to ensure that we continue to have access to high-quality (drinking) water.
Jesus says: “I am the life-giving water, the source of true, joyful human life”. He quite rightly uses this extremely important symbol of life-giving water, which gives extra weight to His inviting words.

So let’s all, each in our own way, do everything we can to continue providing our precious world with LIVING WATER !


What do you think about this?
Write to me ! My email

Johan Muijtjens
September 15, 2026

SEASON OF CREATION - 2

 SEASON OF CREATION (Continued)

DISSENTING VOICES

Yes, true, that’s a wonderful attitude.
But the fact remains that there are many issues I myself can do very little about directly. The well-known manufacturers and oil producers, the high-level politics, the dominant economic interests, the devastating wars, and last but not least the hesitant climate policy.

And to be honest, I’m also skeptical when someone says: Every little bit helps. You may never see the final result, but your small contribution will ultimately make a difference.
Is that really true?
I don’t know.
Intellectually, I don’t have a conclusive answer to that.
Can I endure that uncertainty?
Can I still move forward despite that uncertainty, or does it just paralyze me?

EXPERIENCING SOMETHING

What has helped me endure that uncertainty is experience—that is, actually experiencing something. Not just thinking about something, but also becoming aware of what you’re experiencing. I’ve noticed that by doing things differently—more mindfully, more relaxed—something happens inside me.

For example, tidying up calmly, washing dishes in a relaxed manner, simply helping someone who interrupts you, waiting patiently for a response from someone searching for the right words, writing something down slowly, rereading a longer text, walking back calmly when you’ve caught a glimpse of something beautiful, and a thousand other things like that.

I experience the healing power of “calm.” Of attention that purifies you, however strange that may sound. The sudden fascination with another person you’ve known for years. The unexpected insight when you let go of that urgent question. The spontaneous gratitude for what is so taken for granted. The life in plants that suddenly fascinates you. The playfulness of children or animals. It “suddenly” touches you much more deeply; it opens you up, makes you happy.

You get a sense of being allowed to live, a sense of liberation to simply do what needs to be done. But with less haste, less pressure, more patience. Still seriously committed—but with a smile.

It’s precisely those small experiences that are so important. At least, that’s how I experience it.
They form an interesting chain:

            FROM ATTENTION COMES ADMIRATION
            FROM WONDER COMES GRATITUDE
            FROM GRATITUDE COMES LOVE
            FROM LOVE COMES CARE

What is good or necessary is done, but in a different way—it brings more satisfaction and even joy. In addition to all the effort, it also gives you new energy. It’s mainly a matter of opening yourself up to it.

And, as I said: then you may be surprised by a good idea, a deeper insight, or a new motivation to tackle something or to persevere. You gradually begin to trust your intuition—your spontaneous instincts—more, rather than relying solely on your “logical mind”—however necessary that remains, of course.

GROWING FROM DUTY TO OPPORTUNITY

Perhaps that is the most important change of all:
Tasks that initially had to be carried out out of a sense of duty now begin to appear as an OPPORTUNITY. Your circumstances are no longer merely a practical given, a kind of straitjacket, but they become a space offered to you—a place to say yes to what is good, meaningful, or necessary. Even with wonder and gratitude...

Engagement then doesn’t start with the question: “What do I have to do to save the world?” but much more simply: “What appeals to me, what fascinates me, what do I feel connected to?” (as I explaned in the previous text). Let me respond to that wholeheartedly right now. That’s enough, also in this MONTH OF CREATION. Consciously positively countering pessimism, cynicism, and stress.

LIVING CREATIVELY

Through your inner openness, you’ll actually see more clearly what CAN and IS being asked of you. But now as an offer, a possibility, a space to say “yes” for yourself and to be creative. A motivation born of LOVE for Creation, in joy and trust. Simply let go of the question of whether it’s all worth it. Not out of indifference, but from a deeper knowing, an experience of deeper connectedness, through which you give life and—perhaps even more—receive life!
To be a creator yourself, to connect with all of Creation, which overflows with untamed life force. What an encouragement !

Do you experience it that way, too? Write to me sometime!

Johan Muijtjens
Season of Creation 2026

THE SOURCE OF OUR HOPE NEVER RUNS DRY

 Interview with CARMODY GREY 

[https://groenekerken.nl/carmody-grey/ ] 

*** Can you tell us a little bit about yourself for those who don't know you yet? Who is Carmody Grey? 

I am first of all a mother of my beloved son Benjamin, and wife of my beloved husband Manuel. After that, I am someone who loves nothing more than to be out climbing a mountain, swimming in a lake, hiking in a forest, or working in my garden.  I also think, talk, read, write, do philosophy, theology and ethics, and have a great love of the natural sciences, especially biology.  And I am an English Catholic, with Protestant martyrs in my ancestry.  

***Where did your love of nature come from?  

My grandfather was a famous vet – he was the central character in the famous James Herriot stories, which you may have read, or seen on television or in film. From him I learned that animals and plants are the worthiest object of our curiosity, fascination, reverence and a constant source of delight.  

I was lucky enough to grow up in a beautiful part of the rolling hills of the South Downs. There was nature everywhere. My parents also taught me that curiosity is a virtue, and wonder is an obligation. The worst failing was not to be adequately amazed by the world; not to be surprised; not to be taken up in the astonishing glory of it all. I am eternally grateful for this gift from my parents. Attention to the beauty around us is a discipline, one of the most important ones. It’s a discipline the Scriptures will give us, and the liturgy. We are invited to carefully foster in ourselves a habit of gratitude, based in wonder and praise. 

*** You are a professor of integral ecology at the Laudato Si' Institute at Radboud University. What does “integral ecology” mean? What is "integral" about it? 

Integral ecology is a way of understanding the whole of reality, which is based on the idea that everything exists only through and in its relationships. There is no isolated ‘entity’, only networks of relations. Ecology is the science of relationships; and these relationships are ‘integral’ because they are implicated in one another. In the social teaching of the Catholic Church, the understanding is that we all exist through three relationships which are always intertwined: with one another; with nature; and with the divine. 
So integral ecology is a programme that is moral and spiritual, and also intellectual and practical. It calls us both to live in a particular way, a way which respects that everything is connected, and also to think in a particular way, to understand things by looking at the relationships which make them what they are. In particular, integral ecology challenges the abstractive, analytical style of modern knowledge. Modern knowledge is based on the presupposition that in order to understand something you have to take it apart, literally, to ana- lyse. Integral ecology tries to put things back together – to syn-thesise, to see things in terms of wholes and not just as assemblies of parts. 

*** What appeals to you in the encyclical Laudato Si'? 

Laudato Si’ takes the Church’s vision – a vision of God, creation and human life – and puts it to work in our contemporary moment, to show how deep and rich are its resources for meeting the challenges of our time. It brings spirituality, ethics, science, economics and politics, and theology itself, together, to illuminate what we are facing and how we can move forward. It is both sober and challenging, and also hopeful and joyful. I continue to think it is probably the ‘best’ thing ever written on our ecological crisis, in terms of an all-encompassing vision. 

*** It has been 10 years since the encyclical was written. It seems as if we have learned little from it... 

Yes. That was Pope Francis’ own view as he expressed in the follow-up document he wrote in 2023, Laudate Deum. There he wrote that our progress in addressing the challenges of our time has been painfully slow. And he names the deep reasons for this slowness: myopia, denialism, a deliberate and sustained indifference, and a knowing collusion of the rich and powerful in the destruction of climate and nature.  We talk a lot about Laudato Si’, but it’s important also to talk about Laudate Deum. We need to be honest about our situation. 
We are facing the severest kind of collapse of our life support systems. Our joy and our hope need to be clear-eyed; and they need to spring from faith, not from a cheap optimism which simply believes that things will be ok. We also need to recall that Laudato Si’ was written as an invitation. Not as a solution, or an end- point. It was a call, a summons, an opening of a path. We need to walk down that path. We need to hear the summons, accept the invitation. That’s a work that is ongoing and will not stop. This is particularly true insofar as ecological damage has now reached such a point that the consequences are already unavoidable. We need to consider how we will respond to the challenges that will come our way in the next decades, treating Laudato Si’ as a gateway, not a final conclusion. 

*** As a professor of integral ecology, what activity or subtopic did you tackle first? What has struck you so far? 

At the moment I am thinking about how to give more depth and shape to the theme of integral ecology. The term has quite a diverse history, and sometimes its usage can seem vague and imprecise. I’d like to give it form and focus. More deeply, I am trying to figure out what it would really mean to shift our paradigm. Pope Francis as well as many others asks that we go through a deep cultural, intellectual and social revolution. We need a new synthesis, a new paradigm. What would that look like? How can it be fostered, practically? 

 Once I was quite suspicious of this language. It seemed a bit far-fetched, a bit over-the-top. But that has changed.  It now seems clear to me that the whole basis on which our civilisation was constructed needs revisiting. We need to step back, to see the pathologies of our civilisation – pathologies of endless consumption, self-absorption, failure to respect our finitude and our earthliness – and ask how we can grow as human beings into something more mature, more grounded, more whole.  We need a new way of thinking about ourselves, about what constitutes a worthwhile life, about what happiness is, about our place in nature, our responsibilities to it and to each other.  

That rightly deserves to be called a paradigm shift. But new paradigms cannot just be invented. They need to be discerned through a shared process of listening and enquiry, and a deep openness to the creativity that is always flowing in reality itself.  So that’s what I’m doing now: listening, learning, reading, trying to understand – how do we need to see differently, think differently, so that we can live and flourish as creatures of this earth.  
I don’t have any answers. But I do know that we need to learn from those we have traditionally ignored. That means women, especially mothers; it means indigenous communities; it means communities in the global south.  And yes, it means listening to animals and plants and ecosystems. They are always speaking, if only we would stop and listen.  But this contemplative receptivity needs to go together with a steely, gritty, fierce determination to apply political pressure to see actual change, especially at the global level. This is a difficult combination to pull off but that’s what we have to do. We really do have to be as wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 

*** The theme of climate change has become politicised and polarised. How do we get out of this? 

That is one of the toughest problems. The politicisation of climate change, especially its representation as a cause of the radical left, has been probably the single greatest obstacle to generating shared political will to tackle this problem.  

I am thinking about this a lot at the moment. We need to reimagine a language of the good, the true and the beautiful that actually unifies; a new vision of human life which crosses the political divide, which people from every political background can recognise themselves in. I think that means we need something like a new humanism. That’s another thing I am working on at the moment. 

*** Our theme for this year is “Sabbath life”. A life characterised by rest and connection, at least one day a week. Do you recognise that there is a great need for this? 

 Desperately. And it’s harder than ever. The revolutions in communication and information technologies – smartphones, ChatGPT, AI and chatbots – these are genuine enemies. And I do mean that as strongly as I’ve said it. These forces deprive us of the very means of our life – real, sustained relationship with one another and with nature. Figuring out how to protect ourselves is a critical imperative right now. I hope Pope Leo will lead us in this.  

As individuals, we have to put these technologies in their place in our lives: that is a very restricted, carefully circumscribed place. I hope for a future in which we see that smartphone use, or regularly employing ChatGPT in our ordinary work and leisure lives, is as damaging as smoking.  And we have to figure out how to do this as a society as well. An integral ecology is also about this. Our real lives take place in three dimensions, in real space and real time. That’s where we need to live, to build our meaning and our identity.  If we try to live in the virtual space, we end up not living at all.  

We need to fight for our Sabbaths. We mustn’t wait to be given them. We need to fight for them. Rest is resistance – resistance to a prevailing paradigm of frenetic activity, constant pressure to  produce, to achieve, to go somewhere or do something. We need to notice that just to be a creature is already enough. We don’t have to make ourselves. We are made and given to ourselves. We can dwell gratefully in our creatureliness, to see and give thanks for our own being and all the creatures around us. Not only can we, but we must.  This is what makes action possible – not reaction, but true action. Because true agency, which is rooted in freedom. The Sabbath makes us free. 

*** The ecological crises can be saddening. What gives you hope? 

The ecological crises should be saddening. If we do not grieve, we are deceiving ourselves. We all need to find ways to grieve what we are losing. We need practices of mourning and lament; ways we can express our anger, our pain, our grief, our fear. I think this is more important than we know.  

But hope is a wellspring that never runs dry. Why? Because true hope is not based on an optimism that things will turn out well. It is based on a faith that the grain of this world, the grain of reality itself, is towards the good; that nothing can extinguish that goodness. That no matter how things go in the coming decades, that goodness is deeper, more enduring.  People of faith call this goodness ‘God’. It is that which St Paul calls ‘the reason for our hope’. The greatest witnesses to Christian faith have been people who lived a radical hope like this. Dietrich Bonhoeffer is my favourite example. Even when all seemed hopeless, he still witnessed to the possibility of goodness, to human dignity and a sense of purpose and meaning, the worthwhileness of doing what is right - even in the darkest places, and even when it seemed it would make no difference.  

This deep goodness of things, which is God, shows itself in our daily lives. We all sense those places where it is close to the surface, where it communicates with us. For me that is in the face of my son Benjamin. When I see Benjamin playing, when I hold him, I feel that inextinguishable beauty of reality; its endless dynamism and freshness.  We all need these concrete encounters with the source of hope. For many, it is in their children. For others it is nature, or music, or friendship. And obviously this changes throughout our lives. Each of us needs to identify those places, the places where we feel real life flowing, the energy of God, if I can put it like that. And stay close to those places. 

*** What message would you like to convey people who are committed to this? 

DON’T GIVE UP. NEVER GIVE UP. NEVER EVER GIVE UP. 

 ==========

SEASON OF CREATION - 1

SEASON OF CREATION

I’VE HAD ENOUGH… 

When it comes to love for nature—especially during this monthlong Season of Creation—I’m tired of always having to start with that ever-growing list of everything that’s going wrong in terms of climate, the environment, war, and peace. It takes so much energy out of me! Getting annoyed at climate deniers, oil barons, corrupt politicians, and misleading information—it drains all my energy and courage. Even numbers, no matter how large, affect me less and less.  Images of the suffering of people, animals, and plants only make me sadder. 

SO WHAT DOES HELP ME? 

That has become the big question for me. 

I’m becoming increasingly convinced that it’s especially the things I’m personally involved in—the things I love, the things I truly care about—that give me the energy and enthusiasm to commit to a cause. That’s where an important key lies for me: I need to feel involved. It has to move me. Otherwise, it just rolls off me. That starts very close to home, in my own daily life and circumstances.That’s where I find my sources of energy. 

For example, I notice that something changes inside me when I take the time to do something calmly and carefully. When I don’t decide right away, but take a little longer to think it over. When I take a moment to look a little longer at the plants I care for, speak to them kindly, and above all… listen to them. Then something happens. It’s as if they gain a voice and have something to say to me. As if they’re appealing to me—appealing to the good and positive in me, to the joy within me. I’m allowed to care for them, I’m allowed to do that task calmly and well, I’m allowed to give that person a thoughtful answer. You could say: It’s not so much about duty, but much more about an invitation, an opportunity, a space that’s been offered to me. 

IT PAYS OFF IN ITS OWN RIGHT 

Curiously enough, that engagement turns out to be its own reward. Put simply, it puts me in a good mood. I feel calmer and more relaxed. I become more receptive to all the good things that are happening in the meantime—things I normally overlook and that the media rarely draws my attention to. Pausing a little longer to reflect on a message. Taking a moment to look at something I’m working on. Giving it a little more attention. And suddenly, something that seemed insignificant or just routine turns out to be important, valuable, more interesting than I thought, more fascinating... 

--- 

These are just a few initial thoughts and experiences, offered as a modest guide to experiencing the Season of Creation in a meaningful and encouraging way. 

Next week, I hope to explore this further, because, evidently, not only experiences but also questions arise… 

By the way: Do you recognize this in yourself as well? Do you have an example ? Let me know !   There’s nothing more beautiful than enriching one another! 


 Johan Muijtjens
September 2, 2026 

  

THE POWER OF SHARED CONVICTION

 When people come together with conviction to stand up for a cause, miracles
can happen. This was also evident when a large number of people joined forces
to advocate for the many islands that are in grave danger due to rising sea levels.

TO THE INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE

It all began on the front lines of the climate crisis, when a group of students from the Pacific region and the government of the island nation of Vanuatu decided to take their fight for the right to life to the world’s highest court: the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the Netherlands.

Several countries soon joined them, and many nonprofit organizations also helped fund this case.
The campaign led to a groundbreaking ruling by the Court: 

THE URGENT ACTION NEEDED TO COMBAT THE CLIMATE CRISIS IS NOT OPTIONAL, BUT IS A LEGAL OBLIGATION.

States have a duty to prevent climate damage, protect human rights, phase out the use of fossil fuels, and remedy climate-related damage and loss.
This requires a structured follow-up for implementation—including reporting to the UN Secretary-General.

Such a ruling by the highest Court of Justice is, of course, wonderful, but what is its effect?
If everyone can act as they see fit regarding the consequences of climate change—if it remains optional—there is no incentive to comply.
Then there is no guarantee that people will actually take effective action, in general and now in particular, given the ongoing rise in sea levels, to help the islands that are already in grave danger.  Only if it becomes a legal obligation can it have an impact.

But for that to happen, governments must commit to this obligation.
The path to achieving this is through the United Nations.

TO THE UNITED NATIONS

For a year, efforts have been made on many fronts to influence the views of governments. Numerous civil society organizations, newspapers, other media outlets, legal associations, health organizations, and independent organizations such as AVAAZ—with millions of members worldwide—have worked tirelessly. 
AVAAZ alone collected more than 460,000 (!) signatures, an incredible show of support for this cause!

Recently, in May of this year, the matter finally came before the United Nations General Assembly. 
After heated discussions and amendments, the so-called Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice was put to a vote. Or, more precisely: the OPERATIONALIZATION of that Opinion—meaning that it must be implemented and given the force of law.

To the immense joy of many, it happened: 141 countries voted in favor, 8 against, and 28 abstained. A massive victory: even major polluters such as China, Japan, Brazil, and the European Community voted in favor and thus committed to the UN that they will phase out fossil fuels (gradually reduce their use) and that they will protect their populations in various ways—and can be held legally accountable for (not) doing so.

After all the bickering—even after the 2015 Paris Agreement, where so much was promised—this result is unprecedented! 
And there was something else:
As a sign of solidarity, these countries promised that they would never erase the island states as nations, that their sovereignty would be preserved, even if their land is put in grave danger by the sea.

IT ALMOST FAILED, THOUGH

Behind the scenes, oil-producing nations pulled out all the stops to crush this movement. Trump tried to intimidate and pressure Vanuatu discreetly, through back channels, to withdraw the resolution, while Saudi Arabia and other countries did everything they could to water down the text.

Among the countries voting against it—and this will come as no surprise to anyone—were the biggest polluter: the United States, as well as Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, among others.

THE FIRST TIME

This is the first time that, at the highest level and by an overwhelming number of states, it has been recognized that there is an obligation—to one’s own citizens, their descendants, and their interests, as well as to one another—because emissions from fossil fuels, in particular, spread far beyond national borders, with the most vulnerable bearing the brunt of the negative consequences.

In a time that sometimes seems hopeless, this is an important victory for
humanity, and a major blow to the proponents of fossil fuels.
Small island nations and the moral strength of hundreds of thousands of people have led the world to this point!

OF COURSE—AND YET! 

Of course, a decision like this at the highest level does not solve the major global
problems. Everyone remains painfully aware of the many consequences of the climate crisis—not only ecological but just as much social. It is precisely those least “to blame” who are hit the hardest in so many ways.
 
But until now, the commitment to action has never been so clearly articulated at the highest level—and, of course, even more importantly, recognized and accepted by an overwhelming majority of nations. 
Those who vote against it are becoming increasingly isolated, no matter how powerful they may be.
 
“World opinion” is clearly shifting in a positive direction. It is precisely the spiritual power of this shift that, in the long run, has the deepest impact. That is what instills confidence, and it is precisely that which also motivates and inspires us to persevere! 

Unfortunately, many media outlets often emphasize the negative, because that’s what makes for sensational news. You have to make an effort to also see the positive developments, which are more of an undercurrent and almost always happen quietly. But those encouraging developments are very real—and in abundance! They don’t scream for attention or publicity, but focus—on a larger or smaller scale—primarily on quality, sustainability, and inclusivity. 
In this way, they are and remain an invitation to those who may feel discouraged by “the big picture.” There’s every reason to persevere and get involved!

CREATIVE GAIA

That is the title of this blog.
GAIA, the fully alive Earth, creative, beautiful, courageous.
 Nature never gives up, it never gets discouraged, it always remains creative and seeks new paths—and often performs astonishing miracles! 
We humans can let ourselves be inspired and encouraged by nature’s great gifts. The courage of a group of students to take the initiative, the support of truly countless well-meaning and eager people, and the power of the conviction that it can be done—these are encouraging lessons for all of us!


Johan Muijtjens
July 2026

===========================

For those who would like to read more about all this, I’m quoting from AVAAZ here.

* The presentation in Geneva:

AVAAZ gathered more than 467,000 (!) votes worldwide to support Vanuatu and its allies. 

Through innovative opinion polls, they were able to clearly demonstrate to heads of state that their citizens wanted them to vote in favor of the UN
resolution. 
It began with presenting 378,498 votes to diplomats in Geneva (see photo), and the additional support from another hundred thousand people around the world only reinforced that message.
Our senior Swiss campaigner brought our votes directly to a packed hall in Geneva, filled with diplomats accustomed to listening to dry speeches. Muriel gave a powerful, genuinely vulnerable speech about the world we’re leaving behind for her unborn child and our next generation. You could hear a pin drop—the energy in the room completely shifted.

* Making inroads in Brazil and other countries.

We needed to put pressure on swing states. In Brazil, we published targeted
polls showing that the resolution had strong public support.
When Brazil’s largest newspaper published our findings, the government discreetly contacted us to request the data. 
We also conducted and published polls in the Netherlands and Germany.

* Vepaiamele’s message

Vepaiamele, a 17-year-old climate activist from Vanuatu, recorded a heartfelt plea from the beach of her home island. Her message resonated directly with key delegations. 
She said afterward: “For a long time, I felt like the world was looking the other way while our homes, schools, and islands were sinking. Today, they finally saw us. This vote won’t suddenly stop sea-level rise, but it’s a recognition that our lives, our homes, and our future are worth saving.”

* The practical content of the resolution:

    A lifeline for those on the front lines: The resolution states that island nations retain their sovereignty and their rights, even if their land physically sinks due to rising sea levels. For communities from the Pacific Ocean to the Amazon rainforest—who are already paying the highest price for a crisis they did not cause—this confirms that they cannot be wiped out.
    Polluting countries are legally liable: this is a line in the sand. Governments have been warned: subsidies for more fossil fuels have legal consequences.
    The major oil bloc is becoming isolated: with a vote of 141 to 8, the world’s biggest polluters—such as the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and Russia—have been reduced to a small, desperate group of outsiders swimming against the tide. 
    A boost for climate litigation: the resolution gives new momentum to climate litigation worldwide. There are already more than 3,000 cases currently influencing climate policy around the world. And more will follow.

 Finally, AVAAZ writes: This is proof that, in the midst of this global crisis, something beautiful is emerging. It shows that the future still belongs to us, even when the odds seem slim.
Thank you for refusing to give up. 
Thank you for standing up for the Pacific Ocean.

=================

EARTH DAY - MOTHER EARTH DAY

On April 22, we celebrated the annual EARTH DAY: Around the world, a billion people reflect on the state of our planet, with this year’s theme being: OUR POWER, OUR PLANET — a message that goes beyond symbolism.

ORIGINS

It all began long ago, in 1970, when an U.S. senator, Gaylord Nelson, had enough of environmental pollution being ignored by the politicians—and succeeded in having April 22 declared NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL DAY. The response was massive—twenty million Americans took to the streets—one of the largest protest movements in American history. 
This bold initiative soon led in the U.S. to the establishment of the EPA — the Environmental Protection Agency—, as well as to laws regarding air and water quality.

WORLDWIDE

This day grew into a global phenomenon. 
In 2009, the UN officially recognized April 22 as International Mother Earth Day. That was a more beautiful title, one that also resonates with affection and commitment.

Today, more than 190 countries participate, and an estimated one billion people take part in activities, demonstrations, and initiatives.



THE THEME

This year’s theme:  OUR POWER, OUR PLANET proclaims that the well-being of our Earth does not depend on the government in power, but is actually, much more than we realize, determined by the choices we, ordinary people, make wherever we make choices: at home, in schools, clubs, businesses, factories, offices, on the street, in our gardens, in grocery and clothing stores — yes, basically everywhere! This is because everything is so deeply interconnected and influences one another, even if you don’t see it right away. It therefore requires not only deeper insight but also a strong conviction that every effort bears fruit. 

NUMBERS AND TECHNOLOGY

We often get tired of all the numbers pouring over us — rising temperatures, faster melting ice, satellite images of poisoned ocean, threatened biodiversity, percentages of this and that. It all seems very scholarly and technical. It’s tempting to think that it is all science and technology . And the other temptation: politics, the government, big corporations — they’re the ones who should really be doing it. 

POLITICS

Sometimes I think: yes, if only we could leave it to our government—that would be easy. But politicians are ordinary people like we, elected by us and also susceptible to influence. When we clearly speak up, react to decissions taken or express our opinions through our actions, we have more influence than we realize, particularly through our ways of purchasing and spending.  There are plenty of examples of how stores and companies adapt to the wishes and tastes of the public. This applies not only to food, clothing, transportation, travel, heating, and the like, but also to the choice and use of environmentally sensitive materials, such as paper, plastic, wood, and batteries—not to mention reusing items instead of throwing them away.
There is, everywhere, a great deal of goodwill and concern and if you look closely, you’ll see that a “trend” quickly resonates “upward”! That may encourage us and give us confidence in further changes.

INSIGHT AND REFLECTION

All of this is very concrete: doing or not doing things, making practical choices, raising your voice, and so on.
What could and should get much more attention is the influence of the less “tangible”, such as our way of thinking and speaking about these matters, the choice of what we do read and what we 'skip', the choice of TV programmes and the items in other media to which we offer our time and attention. 
All media in fact take a stance, emphasize certain values, make conscious choices and have a major influence on our thoughts and feelings—and thus on our actions.

It is true: it takes some extra effort to read an article all the way through and not just the headline, to search the newspaper or TV guide for examples of positive news and developments or challenging examples of people who are taking courageous initiatives or who, despite resistance, continue to believe in a good cause. However, that effort is often rewarded with greater understanding of situations, motivations and backgrounds, it modifies your judgment and - what is most important - it gives you new ideas and courage to continue involving yourself in a good practice and/or to persevere with it.

JOINING FORCES WITH MANY OTHERS

I am deeply convinced of the good will and the desire of countless people for a good and healthy society and natural environment. They give shape to that desire  by simple and unpretentious dedication, first and foremost in ordinary daily life. 
But, we all know, reality is often stubborn and resisting, and that's why we need the support of each other in continued care for Mother Earth. People meet and cooperate in dozens, indeed hundreds, of groups and organizations to make their commitment even more meaningful and effective - and in order not to loose heart when the going gets tough.

Let me therefore conclude with an encouraging example of these days.

THE COALITION OF THE WILLING

Last year, the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) took place in Belém, a major city in Brazil’s Amazon region. There happened certainly a great deal of solidarity and encouragement, but the greatest frustration for many was that the major oil-producing countries simply blocked any real change regarding the matter of fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal).

This frustration had a good effect:
“We won’t stand for this anymore!” said a number of countries, and Colombia, assisted by The Netherlands, took the initiative to start a group of like-minded nations. Since then, that group has grown to include today already more than fifty countries.

From April 24 to 29, this year, these countries (scientists, politicians, economist, etc. ) gathered in the Colombian city of Santa Marta, not to draft nice-sounding statements, but to encourage and help one another, to share knowledge and experiences in scientific, economic, technical, and other fields, and foster cooperation: TRANSITIONING AWAY FROM FOSSIL FUELS.

The participants, however, are not naive. They realize that the largest producers and/or polluters— most of all the United States and further including China, India, Saudi Arabia, to mention the most important —are not present.
But other medium-sized and large countries are present, including Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Angola, Nigeria, Australia and also the European Community is represented. They believe in effective cooperation, in setting an helpful and ancouraging example by making clear choices. First and foremost, by mutual support through agreements and measures. At the same time inviting more countries, because the urgency of limiting and increasingly replacing fossil fuels is very great. The recent war between the US and Iran gives extra impetus to all these efforts. Perhaps a blessing in disguise ...

EARTH DAY, MOTHER EARTH DAY.

Clearly, it is not about a single day ! It is about passionate, practical, and grateful commitment to Mother Earth, to people, animals, plants, and everything which a loving Creator so generously has given and entrusted to us.
Let us keep courage, without panic, reflecting, praying and acting with trust and determination. The good Spirit is working throught all the ups and downs. We are not alone. 

Johan Muijtjens
Maastricht, May 2026



I welcome your reactions.
Please use my email: j.muijtjens@debeyart.net
Thank you.