World Oceans Day is a global celebration and a call to action to protect the health and beauty of our oceans. As Catholics, this day provides a special opportunity to reflect on our responsibility as stewards of God’s creation and to consider how our faith calls us to care for the vast and wondrous bodies of water that cover our planet.

The Bible frequently references the sea, portraying it as both a symbol of God’s power and a source of life and sustenance. In Genesis, the creation story highlights the significance of water as God gathers the seas and brings forth life from the waters (Genesis 1:9-10, 20-21). The psalms also praise God’s majesty and control over the oceans, as seen in Psalm 104:24-25: “How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number – living things both large and small.”

In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis emphasises the importance of caring for our common home, including the oceans. He writes, “The oceans not only contain the bulk of our planet’s water supply, but also most of the immense variety of living creatures, many of which are threatened for various reasons” (Laudato Si’, 40). The Pope calls us to an ecological conversion, recognising the interconnectedness of all creation and our duty to protect it.

Oceans are critical to the health of our planet. They regulate the climate, produce oxygen, and provide food and livelihoods for millions of people. Oceans are also home to an incredible diversity of life, from the smallest planktoon to the largest whales. However, they face numerous threats, including pollution, overfishing, climate change and habitat destruction.

World Oceans Day is a time to celebrate the beauty and importance of the oceans and to commit ourselves to their protection. As Catholics, we are called to be stewards of creation, caring for the Earth and all its inhabitants. By taking action to reduce pollution, support sustainable practices and advocate for policies that protect oceans, we honour God’s creation and fulfil our role as caretakers of our common home.

Let us embrace this day as an opportunity to deepen our commitment to environmental stewardship, inspired by our faith and the teachings of the Church. May our efforts to protect the oceans reflect the love and respect we have for all of God’s creation.

On 25th May, Catholics around the world celebrate the feast day of St Bede the Venerable, a remarkable figure whose contributions to the Church and to history continue to inspire us today. Known as the “Father of English History”, St Bede’s life and work offer profound lessons in faith, scholarship and devotion. As we honour his memory, let us reflect on the enduring legacy of this humble monk and how his example can guide us in our own spiritual journey.

St Bede was born around 673 CE in Northumbria, England. At the age of seven, he was entrusted to the care of the monks at the monastery of Wearmouth and later moved to the monastery of Jarrow. It was there that he spent the remainder of his life, immersed in prayer, study and writing.

Bede’s monastic life was marked by a balance of work and devotion, a reflection of the Benedictine motto “Ora et Labora” (Pray and Work). his dedication to both intellectual pursuits and spiritual practices serves as a powerful reminder of the harmony between faith and reason. Bede believed that all knowledge ultimately led to a deeper understanding of God, a principle that is still relevant for Catholics today.

St Bede’s most famous work, The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, is a cornerstone of historical writing. This seminal text not only chronicles the early history of England but also provides invaluable insights into the spread of Christianity in the British isles. Through his meticulous research and careful documentation, Bede preserved the stories of countless saints, missionaries and martyrs, ensuring that their legacies would not be forgotten.

For modern Catholics, Bede’s historical writings are more than just a record of the past, they are a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. His work underscores the importance of preserving our heritage and passing on the faith to future generations. By studying Bede’s writings, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Church’s rich history and the many individuals who have contributed to its growth.

Despite his scholarly achievements, St Bede remained a model of humility. He never sought personal glory or recognition, dedicating all his work to the greater glory of God. This humility is evident in his simple, yet profound epitaph: “Bede, servant of Christ and priest”.

Bede’s holiness was rooted in his deep love for God and his commitment to living out the teachings of Christ. He was known for his gentleness, wisdom and pastoral care, qualities that endeared him to his fellow monks and the wider community. His life of virtue and piety serves as an example for all Catholics, reminding us that true greatness lies in humble service and unwavering faith.

The feast of St Bede the Venerable is a celebration of a life dedicated to God through scholarship, humility, and faith. As we honour this great saint, let us strive to emulate his example in our own lives. May St Bede’s intercession inspire us to seek wisdom, cherish our heritage and live out our faith with humility and devotion. Through his legacy, we are reminded of the profound impact that a life dedicated to God can have on the world.