My faith suggests that, if we are to preserve the earth in its bounty and beauty, a great part of this work will be done within the walls of our homes, within our families. If the family fails in this regard, other institutions will have a difficult, if not impossible, task to make amends. No other institution, not government, not the school, not the media, not religious faith communities, can fully compensate for failure to teach good earthly stewardship in the home. Environmental policies should incentivize the maintenance of strong families. Parents can teach children at a young age to be environmentally conscientious. Parents, assisted by faith communities, can teach and show that the responsible use of resources is a way of respecting all humankind, of caring for our brothers and sisters the world over.

We will do better as we think of the future for our children and grandchildren. We will focus not only on what is best for us but also what will be best for them and their children