EcoOne, an expression of the Focolare Movement that brings together professionals, teachers, technicians, students and others passionate about ecology, has organized an international meeting to be held from 18th-20th September 2026 in Castel Gandolfo (Italy). Participants from all five continents will take part in three days of sharing, listening and dialogue on the care of creation.

Identity, Network and Future: these are the three key words that will shape the seminar, inviting the participants to reflect on who we are, how we are connected to each other and what goals can help us move forward together.

18th September, IDENTITY: “The cultural and spiritual roots of our commitment”.

19th September, NETWORK: “How can we respond to the challenge of the limits of the planet? Becoming agents and promoters of a culture of integral ecology”.

20th September, FUTURE: “Peace and the ecological challenge. Passing on a culture and practical pathways of relational sustainability”.

It is no coincidence that the event is taking place at this time of year. From 1st September-4th October, Christians around the world celebrate the Season of Creation, an ecumenical journey of prayer and commitment to caring for our Common Home. During this time the Church, together with other Christian communities, is invited to renew its commitment to Creation, guided by prayer, conversion and concrete acts of care.

Stefania Papa, Coordinator of EcoOne said, “The EcoOne Meeting was born from the desire to create an opportunity for encounter and dialogue between people with different experiences, skills and backgrounds, but united by their concern for the environment and the future of the planet. The goal is to bring together contributions from science, education, social engagement and spirituality, to build a dialogue capable of generating ideas, collaboration and concrete pathways. Today’s environmental and social challenges are all interconnected and require spaces for mutual listening, relationships and working together. This is why the Meeting also aims to be a place where experiences and good practice can be shared, networks can be built and existing collaborations strengthened”.

EcoOne has been promoting dialogue between science, ethics and sustainability for years, inspired by Chiara Lubich’s spirituality of unity and the integral ecology proposed by Pope Francis in Laudato Sì.

The Meeting will be a further step in this direction, a laboratory of dialogue and collaboration, where scientific reflection, care for the environment and human relationships can come together to generate new pathways to be built together. It will be a space where young people, educators, professionals and ordinary citizens can share experiences and explore ongoing projects, for the good of Creation.

Lorenzo Russo
Photo:© Enes Erdemli by Pexels.com