Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish recognized Earth Day, April 22, by planting a pink dogwood tree on church grounds and providing parishioners with practical ways to care for God’s creation. The parish Social Justice Committee took seriously the statement of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops regarding the Catholic faith and respect for God’s creation.

“We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation,” the USCCB statement says. “Care for the earth is not just an Earth Day slogan; it is a requirement of our faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God’s creation. This environmental challenge has fundamental moral and ethical dimensions that cannot be ignored.”

In acknowledgement of Earth Day and in a show of respect for God’s creation, on behalf of the parish the Social Justice Committee planted the tree on April 23 at a brief service led by pastor Father Jim Schillinger and also attended by members of the parish pro-life committee. The committee also placed an insert in the parish bulletin that provided practical suggestions and information about reducing water usage, energy, and waste, reusing by donating and exchanging goods, and recycling. For information visit www.ihmsjc.org/environmental