SSCM Students Honor Earth Day

In what way do I honor the life of all living things, the order of nature, the wildness of the wilderness, the richness of the created world?

This is just one of the questions that Deer Park’s Saints Cyril and Methodius students asked themselves in pondering how each of them can be more mindful of how his or her life affects Planet Earth and her resources. Father Vincent, Deacon Phil and Sister Susan held a prayer service with all students on the lawn and planted a Bradford Pear Tree, donated with kindness by Lou Vincennie of East End Trees in Kings Park.

Part of the closing thoughts during SSCM’s prayer service was thanking God for the gift of one another, saying “We are human and often fail in our dealings with each other, but we pray that you will give us the wisdom to love our neighbors around the world. Help us to tear down walls we have built in our hearts and minds through fear and prejudice. Let our eyes see the person inside….” Respect for Earth, respect for one another, what greater goals can we give our children?

Pope Francis commemorated Earth Day at the Vatican, speaking of environmental stewardship, urging All People to protect and respect the Earth. Over a billion people of all faiths observe Earth Day around the world. Bring this unifying message to life in your daily day by visiting www.earthday.org for ideas on how you and your family can make every day Earth Day!