Latin American and Caribbean Ecotheology: A Kaleidoscope

Abstract

The objective of this article is to present Latin American and Caribbean Ecotheology under the evocative image of a kaleidoscope, in which fragments are combined into a kind of mosaic, suggesting different visualizations. Firstly, a discussion is presented on the relationship between Ecotheology and Liberation Theology, as well as the assumptions of an Ecotheological praxis embodied in the spatio-temporal reality of the continent. The article will emphasize that a kaleidoscopic understanding of ecology—understood as science, paradigm and ethos—reimagines the function and tasks of Latin American and Caribbean Ecotheology. This, in dialogue with environmental sciences and operating a virtuous circularity between academic production and pastoral action, is constituted as theory, practice and spirituality. We emphasize the common elements of Ecotheology and will not dwell on different trends and emphases. We will identify some limits and challenges in this process, without intending to provide an exhaustive analysis. Our aim is to establish reciprocal learning dialogues with Ecotheologies from other latitudes and cultures, and thus effectively contribute to the culture of caring for life on the planet.

Keywords

• ecotheology
• liberation theology
• Latin America
• kaleidoscope