Sydney: A pioneering spiritual resource inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ is set to launch in Australia, offering Catholics and the wider community a path toward ecological awareness, personal transformation, and the promotion of the common good.
The initiative, titled Thresholds of Transformation for Seekers and Searchers (TTSS), will host its first official group gathering in Australia on February 24. Developed and published by Emmaus Productions, TTSS is described not as a course or program, but as “a multi-disciplinary change process and transformative journey” designed to foster integral ecology and collective wellbeing.
Monica Brown, executive director of Emmaus Productions, explained that the resource weaves together multiple dimensions: Pope Francis’ ecological teachings, the universe story, Catholic and Christian traditions, and Gospel values. “Thresholds of Transformation for Seekers and Searchers is a unique and timely integration of these narratives,” Ms Brown said. “Its purpose is to enrich personal and communal spirituality while deepening awareness of our dignity, interdependence, and the impact of our choices on our common home.”
TTSS emphasizes both personal reflection and communal engagement, aiming to cultivate ecological consciousness and spiritual growth simultaneously. Participants are encouraged to explore how faith can guide responsible stewardship of creation while promoting social and ecological harmony.
The program comprises 15 two-hour gatherings, which can be attended in local or regional in-person groups or via Zoom. Each session features video presentations, interspersed with guided reflection, interactive discussions, ritual, prayer, and opportunities for shared insights. This structure allows participants to explore the intersections of spirituality, ecology, and community action in an immersive and reflective setting.
TTSS was launched internationally in September 2025, with groups already running in the United States. New programs are beginning in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand, and the Australian launch marks a significant step in the program’s global expansion.
In Australia, the resource has drawn interest from the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference’s Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service, which is conducting a pilot study to examine how parishes and diocesan offices can participate. Additionally, the Broken Bay Institute is partnering with TTSS to provide certification for those who complete the program.
Bishop Timothy Harris, chair of the Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service, encouraged diocesan leaders to embrace TTSS as a meaningful pathway for embedding integral ecology into the life of the Church. “Consider this program as an opportunity to ground the commitment of your diocese to integral ecology in the spirituality of Laudato Si’,” he said, highlighting the initiative’s potential to inspire both spiritual and ecological transformation across Australian Catholic communities.