Date of Award
1-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Santa Clara : Santa Clara University, 2025
Degree Name
Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL)
Director
Mary E. McGann
Abstract
The climate crisis demands urgent action, as highlighted by Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum. In response, the thesis explores the potential of bamboo cultivation as a strategic and faith-response solution in the Philippines. Bamboo, a Filipino cultural icon, offers rapid growth, carbon sequestration, sustainability, and resilience, making it a practical tool for climate mitigation.
Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching (CST) and employing the See, Judge, Act pastoral methodology, this study examines bamboo’s cultural significance, ecological benefits, and its role in addressing the country’s environmental challenges. It proposes mobilizing Catholic communities, particularly through the Magagmay nga Kristiyanong Katilingban (MKKs), to plant bamboos on Church, public and private lands.
This thesis bridges theology and ecology, offering a practical model for faith-based ecological conversion and communal climate action, with implications for global climate solutions.
Recommended Citation
Cabrias, Arn S., "Bamboo, a Filipino Icon: A Beacon of Hope in Pope Francis’ Call to Climate Responsibility" (2025). Jesuit School of Theology Dissertations. 138.
https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/jst_dissertations/138
