In the October 12 edition of The Intelligencer, Stephen Moore wrote a scathing criticism of Pope Francis’ recent pastoral letter, Laudate Deum (Praise God) on climate change.

I offer a different response.

First, contrary to Mr. Moore’s impression, Pope Francis does not claim to be infallible in his teaching on the environment. He has issued a teaching document on a serious subject, after wide consultation and reflection, and it deserves respect. Catholics and others, especially those well versed in the letter’s subject matter, are free to form their own opinion and offer their insights.

Second, Pope Francis is a pastor of souls, deeply concerned for the well-being of people, especially the poor. He writes with passion in the hope of getting people to take a serious issue seriously. So did Mr. Moore.

Third, I agree with Mr. Moore that the industrial revolution of the 19th century and subsequent advances in science and technology have made life much better for the Western world and are now benefiting people in poorer countries. But the issue remains: are some of the ways those advances were achieved, particularly the use of fossil fuels, undermining those benefits by causing major damage to the environment? Climate change has occurred from the beginning of our planet but the evidence seems clear that we human beings are now contributing to a decline in Earth’s liveability.

Fourth, it is not unfair that the Pope challenges Americans to tighten their collective energy belt. It’s like reducing expenses when you realize you’ve been spending too much. Our lifestyle would not be seriously threatened by using less air conditioning, improving public transportation to draw us out of our cars and doing remedial urban planning to calm “heat zones” in our large cities.

Finally, a prophet’s words can sting but a true prophet tells us the truth. I invite readers to go to the Vatican website to read Laudate Deum for themselves.