“The Sacred Universe - Earth, Spirituality and Religion in the Twenty-First Century” by Thomas Berry

References to Thomas Berry kept popping up in my reading, so I thought I should find out why he was quoted so often. So I turned to “The Sacred Universe – Earth, Spirituality and Religion in the Twenty-First Century”. Published in 2009, this is a collection of essays written by Berry between 1972 and 2001. Berry (who died in 2009) was a Catholic priest, cultural historian, and scholar of the world’s religions, especially Asian traditions. He also studied Earth history and evolution.

Berry displays an extraordinary breadth of knowledge and perspective that places current human activity within the timeframe of the creation and evolution of the entire universe. He argues that Western civilisation, since the Industrial Revolution, has lost its connectedness with the earth and generated a distorted view of humanity as a superior species which can utilise the rest of the earth for its own benefit (unlike indigenous peoples whose spirituality embraces balance with nature, the planet and the cosmos).

He argues that we dwell in a sacred universe, we are part of a vast evolving process, and we need to return to a sense of kinship with all beings. He sees the divine in the natural world and that extinguishment of a species is to extinguish a voice of the divine. He encourages all religions to develop a revised spirituality that places humanity in its proper balance with the rest of creation.

I’m confident that Berry would have been pleased with Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si, but equally would despair with the slow pace of real change towards his vision of a universe in balance.

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FAQs: “The Sacred Universe - Earth, Spirituality and Religion in the Twenty-First Century” by Thomas Berry

What does Berry mean when he says Western civilisation has lost its connectedness with Earth?

Berry argues that since the Industrial Revolution, Western societies have mostly viewed nature as resource or property, not sacred kin. This disconnection shows in climate change, species extinction, and environmental degradation. He contrasts this with many indigenous spiritualities which still see themselves as part of Earth’s web - balanced, relational, responsible. (Source: Thomas Berry essays; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

How does Berry’s concept of a ‘sacred universe’ reshape how religions view humanity’s place in creation?

For Berry, a sacred universe means seeing divinity in all beings, not just humans. Religions need to shift from anthropocentrism to a sense of kinship with plants, animals, rivers, soil and cosmos. When humans see themselves as participants rather than masters, the relationship with creation changes. Berry calls for religions to develop spiritual practices that honor Earth as divine. (Source: Thomas Berry; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

Why does Berry believe religion must evolve in the twenty-first century?

Berry sees that old religious models do not respond well to modern crises: climate emergency, loss of biodiversity, global inequality. He suggests religions evolve by integrating ecological awareness, cosmology and science. When belief systems adapt, they can offer hope, meaning, and moral direction in uncertain times. (Source: Berry; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

What practical steps does Berry recommend for restoring balance between humanity and the rest of creation?

Berry’s ideas point to practices like ecological education, ritual that recognizes planetary cycles, habitat protection, species conservation, and spiritual reflection that includes gratitude for non-human beings. He encourages individuals and faith communities to act with humility, live sustainably, and listen to Earth’s needs. (Source: Thomas Berry essays; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

What difference could adopting Berry’s vision make for people today?

Adopting Berry’s sacred universe perspective could reshape values around consumption, community and justice. Instead of seeing Earth as something we use, we might see it as something we belong to. Research shows that people who feel a strong nature connectedness report higher wellbeing, lower anxiety and stronger pro-environmental behaviours (Journal of Environmental Psychology, 2019). Berry’s vision helps spiritual seekers find meaning, purpose and moral clarity in caring for Earth. (Source: Journal of Environmental Psychology, 2019; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)

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About the Author - John Scoble

John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.

While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.

Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.