Land, Environment, and Food Systems

Land and the Lord
As the largest non-state landowner in the world, the Catholic Church is a major presence not only in cities, but in the natural and agricultural ecosystems surrounding and undergirding them. Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si' powerfully articulated Catholics’ obligations to care for natural environments and foster sustainable production of and equitable access to food. The Church’s large land holdings give it not only a responsibility but also a tremendous opportunity to contribute positively to these pressing global issues, at scale.
Emerging Questions:
- How do stewards of Church property enact Church teaching in their land management practices?
- How can Church-owned land support sustainable agriculture and equitable food access?
- What is the restoration and conservation potential of Church-owned properties in urban, suburban, rural, and wilderness areas?