stability and peace of the world -- a world in which there is increasing competition for the `` fruitfulness of the Earth . '' `` Can we remain impassive in the face of actual and potential conflicts involving access to natural resources ? '' the pope asked Friday . `` All these are issues with a profound impact on the exercise of human rights , such as the right to life , food , health and development . '' `` Technologically advanced societies must be prepared to encourage more sober lifestyles , while reducing their energy consumption and improving its efficiency , '' while preparing `` sustainable strategies to satisfy the energy needs of the present and future generations , '' he said . Pope Benedict XVI challenged the faithful to be good stewards of what `` God has given us , '' suggesting that peace with the Earth will lead to peace on Earth . `` For this reason , it is imperative that mankind renew and strengthen that covenant between human beings and the environment , which should mirror the creative love of God , from whom we come and toward whom we are journeying , '' he
Vatican City -LRB- CNN -RRB- -- Pope Benedict XVI championed the environment in the Vatican 's annual World Day of Peace message . In his address , called `` If You Want to Cultivate Peace , Protect Creation , '' the pope said peace with the natural environment is the beginning of peace with all of God 's creation , including people . `` Respect for creation is of immense consequence , not least because creation is the beginning and the foundation of all God 's works , and its preservation has now become essential for the pacific coexistence of mankind , '' the pope said . The papal message of peace comes a week after the traditional Christmas address known as `` Urbi et Orbi '' -- Latin for `` To the City and the World '' -- a message of hope for the world 's afflicted . During the Christmas Eve Mass the night before , Benedict was dragged to the ground after a woman jumped a barrier and grabbed his robes . The pope appeared uninjured . In his homily , the 82-year-old pontiff asked parishioners to consider the possible effect of an ecological crisis on the