Small Pockets of Hope - Reflection

I have been in White Rock attending the annual clergy conference from Monday through Wednesday. It is a time for clergy members serving in parishes to gather for learning and fellowship.

The theme of this year ’s conference was “Living God’s Call to Care for Creation.” We spent two full days at the A Rocha centre in Surrey.

“A Rocha” began in Portugal, and its name means “rock” in Portuguese. The community is dedicated to environmental conservation— learning about what surrounds us and how we can restore and care for the world we live in. It brings together scientific research and theological reflection. Staff, residents, and interns work, study, share their experiences, and promote the vision of environmental stewardship.

One of the concepts I learned was “refugia.” This term describes the resilience of nature. When disasters such as floods, wildfires, or droughts devastate an environment, scientists have observed that nature often recovers more quickly than expected. They discovered that small, hidden pockets preserved deep within the ground act as reservoirs of biodiversity. As these areas become active, they expand and connect with one another, forming larger refugia that gradually restore the environment over time.

As I reflect on my experience at A Rocha, I realize that this work is not only for a few people especially devoted to environmental issues. It is for all of us—to help our environment flourish in diversity and harmony.

It begins with noticing: noticing what is around us, recognizing needs, and discerning how we can respond. Through our efforts, we can form our own “refugia,” where life can flourish and where we nurture one another while reflecting the goodness and beauty of God. This may take the form of the physical environments we inhabit or the relational and social spaces where we live. In any case, as we connect with others with care and attention, we cultivate hope within ourselves and in the world.

The world is becoming increasingly hostile toward the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the voiceless. Yet we are reminded that the true richness of God is not found in power over others, but in power with—and even power under. This is what Christ has shown us and promised us.

Would you be willing to be part of a “refugia,” where life is cherished and hope is never forgotten?

Fr. James