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A See, Judge, Act Reflection on the Impacts of Mining from Rome February 2nd, 2015
Chuquicamata Copper Mine, Chile
We all use things that are made with minerals drawn from the earth – from cell phones and computers to automobiles and airplanes. But the mining often happens in places far from our own communities, so we don’t experience the impacts of mining operations personally. Concerned about the information they collected in a 2013 survey on the impacts of mining, the Rome-based Integrity of Creation Working Group of the USG-UISG’s Commission on Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) has created a powerful resource to share this. The booklet created y the group is intended to serve as a general introduction to understanding the impact of mining industries on the community and the environment.
Using the Pastoral Cycle or the See-Judge-Act Process model, the booklet is divided into three main sections: Part One (“See”) provides an overview of some features of mining industries, as seen through the lens of equity; Part Two (“Judge”) presents theological, scriptural and ethical reflections; and Part Three (“Act”) offers practical suggestions for changing personal and communal behavior, which include ways of working for appropriate national and international legal frameworks, and implementation to ensure a sustainable future for the Earth Community. The booklet also suggests resources, experiences and prayers, including questions for you and your community.
Read: A See, Judge, Act Reflection on the Impacts of Mining (Download PDF)
The Grace of Earth March 11th, 2014
GOD REVEALING, GOD INSPIRING, GOD CHALLENGING
“Our Earth is talking to us and we must listen to it and decipher its message if we want to survive” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, 2007
This lenten reflection – again, thanks to the Columban Fathers – explores six Earth life support systems as ways of “God revealing, God inspiring, God challenging”. The resource offers reflections on Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, fresh water, land, plant life, and animal life.
We are encouraged to “… meditate in wonder and thanksgiving at the beauty and complexity of Earth’s eco-cycles. We reflect in sadness and outrage at our human abuse. We ask for forgiveness and decide on positive action for change.”
You can find The Grace of Earth here. (downloadable PDF available)
Stations of the Forest March 10th, 2014
We would like to thank the Columban Fathers for the powerful Stations of the Forest video. It is a compelling narrative of the destruction of the forest that has ruined ecosystems from the Philippines to Brazil – a destruction that imperils the world.
Following the format of The Stations of the Cross this prayerful resource laments the stages in the death of part of God’s Creation. It incorporates issues related to rainforest destruction: extractive industries, loss of biodiversity and climate change.
A Booklet accompanies the DVD, providing the script, an agenda for meetings, a reflection on the Stations, and prayers. (download booklet here)
Download – The Grace of Forests Lenten resource
Lenten Reflections on the Environment March 5th, 2014
I THIRST: A LENTEN JOURNEY FROM DESERT TO GARDEN by Terri MacKenzie (download PDF)
Scripture quotes from the readings for the Sundays of Lent are explored in light of various Earth concerns: water, air, soil. Sessions include input, prayer, silence, discussion, and action suggestions. Originally designed for use by groups, this resource could also be used for individual reflection.
Congratulations to Greens of Guadalupe! November 24th, 2013
The Greens of Guadalupe environmental group in Laredo, Texas was awarded “The Green Community Award” for the month of October by Keep Laredo Beautiful and CW (Laredo’s green TV station).
The plaque presented to the Greens of Guadalupe reads:
Community Green Award: Honoring – Greens of GuadalupeFor their continued efforts in “Greening” our Community through Recycling, Community Beautification Improvement and Litter Prevention Education.
Commitment and Dedication of this business is a tribute to our environment and the citizens of our Community.
Thank You for your efforts to Keep Laredo Beautiful!
Greens of Guadalupe was formed in March 2007 after the late Fr. Darrell Rupiper OMI preached a workshop on integrity of creation to parishioners at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Laredo, Texas.
Great work by chairperson Ms. Birdie Torres and the team!!
