Reflection Document to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day

April 22, 2020 is a symbolic day during this time of global pandemic as it is the 50th anniversary of International Mother Earth Day (UN), more commonly known as Earth Day.

For this occasion, the members of the Water Committee of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) have prepared a reflection document to remind us of the importance of individual actions in protecting nature. This document, which includes suggestions for ritual animation, questions we can be asking ourselves and suggestions for concrete actions, also invites us to celebrate the environment.

Since adopting an official stand which advocates for universal access to water, SNJMs have become more aware of the issues which surround the concept of integral ecology. They have also set up a Congregational Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Coordination Committee, of which the Water Committee is an active part, in order to reinforce their on-going work in raising awareness and taking concrete action.

The activities of the Water Committee contribute meaningfully to inspiring other SNJM initiatives which focus on environmental issues. We would like to thank Sisters Josephine Chudzik, Mary Annette Dworshak, Yvonne Massicotte and an Associate, Mrs. Dorothy Guha, for offering us this opportunity for focused reflection.