Cardinal Robert Thompson's Sunday homily at St. Mary's Cathedral has ignited fierce debate after he declared climate change "God's final warning to humanity" and called for immediate action to address environmental destruction.

Speaking to a packed congregation, Cardinal Thompson drew parallels between modern environmental crises and biblical warnings of divine judgment. "We cannot claim to love God while destroying the very creation He entrusted to our care," he proclaimed from the pulpit.

The Cardinal's remarks, which lasted nearly 20 minutes, included calls for Catholics to embrace renewable energy, reduce consumption, and pressure governments for stronger environmental policies. He specifically criticized the fossil fuel industry and called for divestment from companies that "profit from planetary destruction."

The homily has divided Catholics, with environmental advocates praising the Cardinal's courage while conservative groups have accused him of mixing politics with religion. Several parishioners walked out during the sermon, and the diocese has received hundreds of calls both supporting and condemning the Cardinal's statements.

"This is exactly the kind of prophetic voice the Church needs," said Dr. Maria Santos, director of Catholic Climate Action. "Cardinal Thompson is speaking truth to power and calling us to live out our faith through environmental stewardship."

However, critics argue that the Cardinal overstepped his bounds by making specific policy recommendations from the pulpit. "I come to Mass to hear about salvation, not solar panels," said parishioner Robert Chen. "The Church should focus on spiritual matters, not political activism."

"We cannot claim to love God while destroying the very creation He entrusted to our care."

Cardinal Thompson defended his remarks in a follow-up statement, citing Pope Francis's encyclical "Laudato Si'" and centuries of Catholic social teaching. "Care for creation is not a political issue – it's a moral imperative rooted in our faith," he said.

The controversy has attracted national attention, with environmental groups and religious organizations weighing in on the debate. Some have called for more clergy to follow Cardinal Thompson's example, while others worry about the politicization of religious services.

As the debate continues, Cardinal Thompson has announced plans for a series of environmental education programs in the diocese, including "Creation Care" workshops and partnerships with local environmental organizations.