The St. Gregory Social Action Committee is holding a discussion, “Catholic Youth and the Environment,” on Wednesday, October 23 from 7 to 8:15 p.m. in the Church Hall.

Three panelists will bring their perspectives to the role that young Catholics are playing in promoting greater awareness about our environment and actions they’re taking, particularly around issues related to climate change.

Speakers include Allen Ottaro, the executive director of Catholic Youth Network for Environmental Sustainability in Africa (CYNESA); Bill Patenaude, an engineer with the RI Department of Environmental Management and a frequent contributor to the Rhode Island Catholic who holds a master’s degree in theology; and Cole DeSantis, who is studying for his master’s degree in theology.

In his encyclical on the environment, “Laudato Si,’ or Care for Our Common Home,” Pope Francis stressed that religions can play an important role in protecting the environment and defending human rights in their countries, their communities and their school. This forum will be of special interest to young people who are involved or interested in becoming involved in environmental issues at the local, state or global level. They may be particularly inspired by the work of Mr. Ottaro and CYNESA, which draws young Catholics from Kenya, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, Rwanda and South Africa who promote responsible stewardship of the environment.

The forum is free and open to everyone. St. Gregory the Great Parish is located at 360 Cowesett Rd. in Warwick. For more information, contact Richard Morrissey at 884-3466.