The Italian Episcopal Conference has issued a message for the nation’s thanksgiving day, which will take place on November 13.Recalling that the United Nations has declared 2016 to be the International Year of Pulses, in celebration of legumes, the Episcopal Commission for Social Problems and Labor, Justice, and Peace stated that “legumes are an important nutritional source, rich in protein, and are a significant part of the culture and the Italian agricultural and food tradition with the Mediterranean diet.”
As they reflected on human work as a participation in God’s providence, the bishops also discussed the importance of biodiversity and sustainable and diversified agriculture.