The Holy Spirit is stirring in the Church and throughout Laudato Si’ Movement, inspiring new and transformative ways of caring for our common home. One recent example of this grace is the recognition of Fran Ludwig, Founder and Director of the Boston Laudato Si’ Movement Chapter, with the 2023 Isaac Hecker Award for Social Justice.
The award, given by the Paulist Center in Boston, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to social justice causes. In the past, this award was won by very famous US Catholic social justice champions, such as Dorothy Day and César Chávez. For Fran and her work in the creation care ministry, this accolade highlights the deep spiritual roots and growing impact of environmental stewardship in the Catholic community.
A humbling honor that impacts the community
Fran shared with the Laudato Si’ Movement her thoughts about her joining the ranks of past recipients. “I was surprised and deeply honored,” she said, she was not expecting such recognition. “Social justice work has many gifted leaders,” she added, reflecting on the depth of talent and commitment in the Catholic social justice space.
Her humble response underscores the collaborative spirit of the movement, which seeks to address the global environmental crisis not just through individual efforts, but by fostering community-wide engagement. Fran’s leadership has established Boston’s local chapter as a model for integrating spiritual contemplation with concrete action.
Fran emphasized that one of the most rewarding outcomes of receiving the award is the increased visibility it brings to the creation care ministry: “Just getting an award has brought my chapter and me to the attention of the Boston Archdiocese,” she said, adding that it reinforces to her team members that their work is a vital part of the broader social justice mission of the Church.
A joyful celebration of creation care
On September 28th, there was a Mass to celebrate the award. “I would like to share this award with all those who have dedicated themselves to caring for our Common Home and all its inhabitants,” Fran said during the ceremony. She also spoke fondly of her mentor, whom she met as a child, and who influenced her path toward creation care.
The Isaac Hecker Award is a fitting tribute to Fran’s decades-long dedication to creation care. Isaac Hecker, the 19th-century founder of the Paulist Fathers, believed in the importance of faith in action, particularly within the American Church. Today, Fran Ludwig embodies that same spirit, showing that caring for our common home is not only an environmental issue but a profound act of social justice.
As Fran and her team continue their work, the Holy Spirit’s presence is unmistakable—guiding, inspiring, and prompting us all to embrace new and bold ways of caring for our world, just as Fran has done for so many years.
Her leadership is a testimony to the power of faith-driven action in the fight for environmental justice. May her example continue to inspire us all to care for our common home.
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