International Mother Earth Day was established in 2009 by the United Nations General Assembly under Resolution A/RES/63/278. Bolivia introduced the resolution, which was endorsed by over 50 member states.
Each year, on April 22, International Mother Earth Day, or Earth Day, is celebrated worldwide. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of caring for our homes and address serious challenges, such as climate change.
The theme for 2025 is “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizing the need for individuals to take action and advocate for change through education, community support, and action.
On this Earth Day, as the world unites in care for our common home, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a prophetic voice who called humanity to ecological conversion. Through Laudato Si, he invited us to hear “both the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor,” reminding us that environmental destruction and social injustice are intertwined wounds.
As we honor Earth Day and remember this shepherd of our times, may his legacy move us to deeper solidarity, to integral ecology, and to a renewed commitment to the healing of our planet and its people.
Prayer or Intercession:
God of Creation and Hope,
We thank you for the prophetic voice of Pope Francis,
who called the world to integral ecology and justice.
As Earth groans under the weight of exploitation,
may his words in Laudato Si’ echo in the halls of power.
May world leaders, here at the UN and beyond,
renew their promise to protect our common home,
and walk the path of sustainability, solidarity, and peace.
Lord of Life,
As we mark Earth Day and mourn a shepherd of peace,
may we rise in hope,
committed to the care of creation and of one another.
Amen.