Reflection on the 5^th Mark of Mission
Protect, care for and renew life on our planet

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INTRODUCTION

This reflection is designed to be used either by individuals or in small groups. You will need to set aside about two hours, and find a quiet place. You will also need a Bible, a pen and paper and possibly the camera in your phone.

STEP 1

Sit quietly and breathe deeply for a few minutes.

Pray

Creator God,

We give thanks for the beauty and abundance of the earth. Give us grace to live in harmony with your creation, wisdom and generosity in our use of its bounty.

STEP 2

Read and reflect

Read Genesis 1. 26-31

Reflect on the reading then read again noting down any word or phrase that stands out for you.

Think about the words you have chosen. Why might they have significance for you?

Consider

You might find it helpful to write your answers

• What does it mean to you to be made in God’s image?
• God blessed “humankind”. How have you been blessed by God?
• What might it mean to “have dominion” over creation?

STEP 3

Exploring creation

Read Psalm 19.1-4

Reflect

Take a short walk – perhaps around a garden or around your local area.

Notice

• How you walk, where you are placing your feet
• What can you smell, hear, see?
• What are the little parts of creation that you notice?
• What causes you delight, wonder?

Collect or photograph

Bring something back from your walk – it might be an object that you can safely collect, or use your phone  to photograph something that moved you.

Reflect

• Spend time with your object or the photo you took.
• What does this tell you about God’s creation?
• How does this object/photo relate to the fifth mark of mission?

STEP 4

A personal Challenge -Action

• What do I need to do to protect, care for and renew life on our planet?
• What is happening in my community to protect, care for and renew life on our planet? Can I join them?
• What is happening in my parish to protect, care for and renew life on our planet? What could we do? How can we make this happen?

STEP 5

Pray

Write a prayer about what you have discovered today, or what you plan to do or use the opening prayer again.

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