In a new reflection for The Catholic Spirit, Adam Fitzpatrick of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis’ Center for Mission shares insights from the Vatican’s Raising Hope Conference, marking 10 years of Laudato Si’. Representing the Laudato Si’ Movement Minnesota Chapter, Fitzpatrick describes how the global gathering renewed his sense of the Church’s unity and mission, especially as Catholics worldwide work to address climate challenges. He highlights two key lessons: that the Church’s identity as “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic” is both a truth and an aspiration to be lived, and that tenderness and compassion are powerful signs of real unity. His experience—shaped by simple acts of kindness from fellow participants—deepened his commitment to building communities rooted in care, solidarity, and love for our common home.

