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As the oldest surviving species of tree known to exist, the Ginkgo tree has become a symbol of strength, hope and peace. Shem Center supports other organizations whose work, like the Ginkgo tree, symbolizes and embodies strength, hope and peace in our world.
Consider the Lilies of the Field
Pope Francis has written a follow-up letter to an earlier one, “Laudato Si” regarding the environmental crisis.
This one is titled, “Laudate Deum.” He addresses the people of the world, not just Catholics.
![](https://shemcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/lilies_of_the_field.jpg)
Here is the opening paragraph and a link to the entire document.”Praise God for all his creatures”. This was the message that Saint Francis of Assisi proclaimed by his life, his canticles and all his actions. In this way, he accepted the invitation of the biblical Psalms and reflected the sensitivity of Jesus before the creatures of his Father: “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these” (Mt 6:28-29). “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight” (Lk 12:6). How can we not admire this tenderness of Jesus for all the beings that accompany us along the way!
Read the full statement here.
Return to Others With Vision and Purpose
Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality
708 North Harvey Avenue
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 848-1095
shemcenter1993@gmail.com
Photo Credits: Emory Mead, Stephen B. Starr, Joseph Kilikevice
The Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality website is awarded a 2022 American Digital Design Award for excellence in design and user experience.
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