As Earth Month approaches, the Midwest Franciscan Justice Promoters proudly announce the release of a special calendar for April 2024, titled "Flowing Forward: A Water-Wise Earth Month Calendar." Developed by Catholic sisters from six congregations spanning Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, this calendar seeks to raise awareness about water conservation, justice, and sustainability efforts.
The title "Flowing Forward" embodies the essence of progress and movement towards a more water-conscious future. As our Catholic heritage reminds us, we are in relationship with water, which sustains life throughout the world. With a central focus on water protection, the calendar serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safeguarding our planet's most precious resource.
Sister Nancy Miller, OSF, is a member of the Midwest Franciscan Justice Promoters team. She shares, “Since the beginning of the 13th century, St. Francis of Assisi acknowledged the value of water, affectionately referring to it as 'sister' in his song 'Canticle of the Creatures.' He eloquently expressed both a close bond with water and a profound reverence for its importance when he wrote: 'Praised be You my Lord through Sister Water, So useful, humble, precious and pure.'"
In line with Pope Francis's teachings in Laudato Si’, the calendar underscores the universal right to safe drinking water, emphasizing its vital role in sustaining life and ensuring the exercise of other human rights. Through this initiative, the Midwest Franciscan Justice Promoters echo the call for a shared commitment to care for Creation by addressing environmental challenges.
With Earth Day expanding from a single day to a month-long observance, the "Flowing Forward" calendar offers daily insights, resources, and tips to inspire individuals to take action in conserving water and protecting our planet. It serves as a valuable tool for promoting environmental consciousness and fostering sustainable practices.
About 71 percent of the Earth's surface is water-covered, yet this vital resource faces numerous threats exacerbated by climate change. This reality calls us to contemplate and assess our relationship to water. How much water do we use on a daily basis? Where does our water come from? Are we working to preserve our local waterways? How can we enable all people to have access to safe drinking water?
We invite you to view, explore, and share the calendar throughout the month of April 2024. It is now available at: https://clintonfranciscans.com/flowing-forward-a-water-wise-earth-month-calendar.
The Midwest Franciscan Justice Promoters are made up of representatives of the following congregations:
Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota
Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, La Crosse, Wisconsin
Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis, Wisconsin
Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, Iowa