A dark, dreary and cold May 21st did not deter the hardy spirits of Sisters, Consecrated Seculars and Associate members of the DHS Family from gathering at the DHS Center in Putnam to celebrate EARTH DAY and the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Sí, Pope Francis’ encyclical project.
The event began with greetings and hugs, choosing places at tables, settling in to listen to readings that evoked the important and significant aspects of the encyclical that connect directly in a practical manner to our everyday lives…caring for all of creation and protecting Mother Earth…spiritual and economic conversion…gratitude…responsibility…our roles as individuals and community. The prayer/reflection concluded with a rousing, lively musical tribute to “Earth Mama”.
Then, as befitted the moment, Sr. Michèle called everyone’s attention to the flower pot that adorned each table. She invited the participants to gently pluck the fresh flowers from each pot, to grab a spoon and to dig in. Yes, dig into what looked like dirt and to taste the delicious cake, the ‘dirt’ cake she had prepared for this appropriate occasion that merged the concepts and the realities of Laudato Sí and Earth Day. The photos say it all.
May the Spirit of these merged themes live on in all of us throughout the year…throughout our lives as we continue to praise our Triune God for the infinite gift of life on our common home.