Mark Laury, Ministry Lead for the Marianist Family Encounters Project (MFEP) at Chaminade College Preparatory, St. Louis, MO, sends us this update.
Chaminade College Preparatory, St. Louis, MO, acknowledged Earth Week and broad concepts of sustainability this year with several events. Each morning prayer was prepared with the intention of a deeper understanding of our respect for all life. During lunch shifts, students were visited by a petting zoo, considering that access to the outside, animals, and the natural world benefits our development and mental health. Hanging out with Kemosabe, the llama; Mandela, the tortoise; Patti, the hen, and many other animals brought much joy and calm to our students that day. Our student Q&A group organized a dress-down day. All money raised was in support of the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative.
Our Environmental Science class created infographic slides about the current state of the environment. These slides were broadcasted on media monitors throughout the school. Our middle school science teacher, John Kelly, organized a middle school campus cleanup during their academic lab time. And lastly, our food service created a meatless day menu which coincided with a mentor group discussion in an attempt to raise awareness of the impact of our current food systems.
Top row (left to right): Kemosabe, the llama. Mandela, the tortoise. Patti, the hen.
Dear Mark, great initiative! Thanks to you and to the students and staff for promoting Earth Day in such a creative way!