The first book to present the beloved pope's speeches and writings on environmental matters, thoughtfully synthesized into a complete spiritual and practical vision for the future. Believing that "the ecological crisis is a moral crisis," the late John Paul II was an unexpected advocate for ecological responsibility throughout his papacy, revealing a sophisticated view in which the development of a just human society is closely tied with preserving the health of the Earth. Yet for decades, many in the religious community viewed environmentalism as an "earthly" concern at odds with devotion to God. That is now changing, thanks to the groundwork laid by this most beloved of popes. <br><br><i>Following St. Francis</i> is accessible and illuminating and speaks as much to nonreligious readers as to devoted Catholics. Across themed sections (on Poverty, Women's Rights, Humans as Stewards, Responsible Capitalism), Marybeth Lorbiecki presents the late Pope's contemplation of environmental issues as inseparable from human ones. She follows with a plan that the Catholic Church, as well as individuals, can use to incorporate John Paul II's influential philosophies into daily and spiritual life.