The World Environment Day 2026 which is globally celebrated on 05th June every year was observed in some of our Provinces in our Congregation with zeal and joy. The focus for this year’s World Environment Day was on Climate Change which was encouraged to be celebrated by the JPIC ( Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation) Commission of our Congregation.
Nature and Earth form a skilfully balanced system. All of us are called to be aware of the urgent signals the Earth is sending and to be aware of the choices we make to send back our signals to the Earth. Globally the prevailing patterns of production and consumption are causing environmental destruction, exhaustion of resources and extinction of species. Our Earth speaks to us and we must listen if we want to survive. We are a precious part in the Earth’s web of life and have a duty to uphold the balance of creation.
Rome
The Generalate community in Rome came together on 05th June for a meaningful prayer service to pray for Mother Earth and to renew the commitment to save our planet. The chapel had a display of symbols depicting some forms of nature which is a sacred revelation of God’s power and to be reminded of the connection shared between humans and nature.
India
The Indian Province organized this day in the communities of Bagbasa and Twichakma, both which are situated in the State of Tripura in North-East, India. The sisters, staff members, and hostel children in both communities actively demonstrated their commitment to the values of JPIC (Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation) by conducting meaningful and enriching experiences for all participants through tree planting and cleanliness activities.
These initiatives not only contributed to a greener and cleaner environment but also helped create awareness about the importance of protecting nature and living sustainably. The enthusiastic participation of the children reflected a growing sense of responsibility towards creation and inspired them to become active caretakers of the environment. Through these simple yet significant actions, the communities reaffirmed their dedication to environmental conservation and the promotion of a better future for generations to come.
South Africa
The South African Province, marked world Environment day on the 5th June at St. Joseph’ s Special School, Pinelands, Cape Town. The children and staff of the school planted trees, sponsored by the Centre for Conservation Education, a centre which fosters environmental consciousness and responsibility among teachers and learners in schools. This event united the participants to come together to make a positive contribution to a greener future.
May these loving actions help to protect God’s creation, reflect Christ’s justice, and share the Spirit’s hope to present and future generations. May each choice we take to care for our planet aid to create a greener and better world around us.
Text: Sr. Alda Isa Paes SAC, General JPIC Coordinator
Photos: Sr. Alda Isa Paes SAC, Sisters from Tripura communities in India, Sr. Prescilla Rego SAC