EARTH DAY

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22. Worldwide, various events are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First celebrated in 1970, Earth Day now includes events in more than 193 countries, which are now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network.

Pray and reflect with this 10-minute video produced by the Catholic Climate Covenant that includes images of endangered species projected onto the façade of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

https://youtu.be/_1CED8o7mKI

To Serve

Lately, it seems to me that God has been reminding me and calling me even more intentionally to service.  Scripture proclamations, novels I’m reading, and conversations I engage in all seem to have this thread of service running through them.  

In the Scripture readings for the liturgies of this Holy Week alone, nearly every day there is either a story about service or Jesus speaking of following Him requires being a servant to one another.  During the Holy Thursday liturgy, this is symbolized by the washing of feet (or hands).  

We are all called to service in some shape or form. When my biological sisters retired from their full time jobs, each of them very quickly found a volunteer opportunity or part-time job where their interests and skills could help another person, extended family, neighbors, or local population.  When one of my sister friends moved to the Mound this past year, the Prioress of the Mound community asked her to compile a list of ministry prospects at the Mound and to assist other sisters moving to the Motherhouse and searching for a new opportunity to serve after having “retired” from full time ministry.

I’ve noticed we human beings seem to be happier people when we are providing some kind of assistance for someone.  It also occurred to me that we need to thank each other for the service we’ve each provided, and we need to recognize ourselves for the service we’ve provided.

Is serving part of your DNA?

Is the Spirit leading you to serve with and among us?

Anne Sur OP

East Dubuque, IL