New Eco-Friendly Vestments Launched to Mark Laudato Si’

A new collection of environmentally responsible liturgical vestments, crafted using Bemberg™, will be unveiled in Rome to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si’. This collection pays tribute to the Pope’s passionate call for ecological conversion and care for our common home.

The “POPOLO IN CAMMINO – PELLEGRINI DI SPERANZA” collection will be revealed during the Open Day “Sustainability in Liturgy”, held on May 23–24 at Centro Apostolato Liturgico in Largo Brancaccio 57, Rome. The event is organized by the Sister Disciples of the Divine Master, a congregation of nuns known for creating sacred vestments and religious items with dedication to liturgical elegance and meaning.

Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, released on May 24, 2015, underscores the urgent need to combat environmental degradation, climate change, and social injustice. It invites everyone to act toward sustainable, integral development. Inspired by this vision, the new vestment collection features chasubles, dalmatics, and copes made with Bemberg™, a regenerated cellulose fiber from Asahi Kasei, manufactured in a closed-loop process using cotton linters—a byproduct of cotton production.

The selection of Bemberg™ was based on its proven sustainability credentials, unique texture, and comfort. First introduced to the Sister Disciples at Milano Unica, the fiber stood out for its traceability, circular economy attributes, and premium quality. It provides superior moisture control, a soft touch, and seasonal comfort, making it ideal for sacred wear.

Designed by the Sister Disciples and crafted using textiles supplied by Brunello, the collection reflects the Church’s commitment to sustainability and Pope Francis' enduring legacy. The initiative also highlights the artistic expertise and devotion of the Sister Disciples, who combine tradition with ecological values in their liturgical creations.

Representatives from Asahi Kasei Fibers Italia, including Ettore Pellegrini and Junshu Furusawa, will attend the Open Day to welcome guests and emphasize the collaborative effort behind the project.

Following its debut, the vestment collection will be showcased in window displays across Apostolato Liturgico retail stores in Milan, Rome, Bari, Florence, Palermo, and Cagliari for the next three months, extending the message of Laudato Si’ to a wider audience.