The following is the text of the video message sent by the Holy Father Francis to the participants in the international “Leaders Summit on Climate”, organised by the United States, taking place in virtual form from 22 to 23 April 2021:

Video Message of the Holy Father

Good morning! I greet all of you who have come together in this initiative, which seems to me to be a happy one. It is an initiative that sets us all on the path, the whole of humanity through its leaders. It puts us on the road, in a practical sense, towards the Glasgow meeting, but in an even more concrete way, to take charge of the care of nature, of this gift we have received and which we must care for, preserve and carry forward. And this takes on a much greater significance because it is a challenge we face in this post-pandemic period. It is not over yet, but we have to look ahead, because it is a crisis. We know that you do not come out of a crisis the same: you either come out better or worse.

And our concern is to see that the environment is cleaner, purer and preserved. And to take care of nature so that it takes care of us. I wish you success in this very good decision to meet, to continue on your way, and I accompany you. Thank you!