Greening the Congregation
“Creation is gifted with all kinds of resources that are entrusted to the stewardship of the human family. As they are not unlimited, we have to preserve them for ourselves and for future generations. Competition for scarce resources creates conflict, whilst the conservation of nature and natural resources contributes to justice and the maintenance of peace. These are three interlocking elements in the journey of the human family: justice, peace, integrity of creation. We have to work on all three levels. Vade Mecum p. 5Oblate Resolution
In March 2001, the Provincial Council adopted a resolution designed to “Green” the Congregation. This calls for us to:
- conserve energy and natural resources
- provide environmental health and safety to all Oblates and staff
- integrate environmentalism into Oblate missionary work according to Rule 9a of the Constitution and Rules - “Action on behalf of justice, peace and the integrity of creation is an integral part of evangelization.”
Simplifying lifestyles is an important way to become more ecologically responsible - another means to deepen our involvement in social justice issues and environmental concerns. The resolution of the Provincial Council recommends that we:
- seek to decrease harm to the environment
- reduce waste and dependency on raw materials through recycling
- conserve energy and water
- purchase products that are non-toxic, recyclable and minimally packaged.
Ecological Education Resources:
OMI Environmental Resolution (Download PDF)
Oblate Environmental brochures:
- REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE (Download PDF)
- EATING ORGANICALLY (Download PDF)
- ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS (Download PDF)
- GREENING THE GARDEN (Download PDF)
Ten steps you can take to “Turn the Tide”
Links:
Programs of the US Catholic Conference of Bishops:
National Council of Churches, Eco-Justice Program
National Religious Partnership for the Environment
Evangelical Environmental Network
Ecology News
- Platform for the Common Good Adopted in Philadelphia July 29th, 2008
- Improving the United Nations Response to Global Humanitarian Crises July 25th, 2008
- Tri-Lingual OMI JPIC International E-Newsletter Launched July 25th, 2008
- Green Monastery Planned by Benedictine Women July 23rd, 2008