Holy Cross Retreat Center in Mesilla Park hosted two events for Earth Day. On Friday evening, April 22, about 45 people gathered for an interfaith prayer service to recall the beauty of the earth and give thanks to God for the many gifts received. The speaker, Rev. Henry Atkins, challenged participants to care consciously for all of creation, including the poor and those most affected by environmental issues.
On Saturday, ten speakers provided practical ways to change attitudes and actions in order to be more environmentally responsible. Participants helped create an outdoor mural, and heard about the experience of owning an electric car. Activities finished in the afternoon with planting a drought-resistant Red Push Pistache tree that will provide more shade for the labyrinth. Now comes the reality of working both locally and regionally throughout the year to care for the earth by following through on the ideas presented over the weekend.
– friar Tom Smith OFM Conv.
