Ecological Spirituality

Abstract

Solutions to the ecological crisis are sought out in various areas of science, technology, philosophy, economy, and politics. Given the fact that ecological problems also have moral and spiritual roots, the Eastern and Western Christian churches have been trying to give their own contribution to the awakening of ecological awareness through the prism of ecological spirituality based on theocentric ecology. This article will elaborate on four common religious principles of the Eastern and Western Christian churches that constitute the ecumenical backbone of the praxis of ecological spirituality. These are: conversion, solidarity, ascetic ethos, and Eucharistic ethos. Ecological spirituality, especially in its theocentric ecology, has been emphasized by Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The article will, therefore, primarily focus on their texts and statements in which they encourage believers, as well as all (non) religious people of good will, to return to and practice ecological spirituality. Through this, the article draws attention to their individual and common contribution to the awakening of ecological awareness.