Working Together to Protect the Earth

In November 2018, the Conventual Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Consolation launched the Franciscan Earth Care Initiative, celebrating the Franciscan tradition of honoring nature, the environment, and our planet. Much has happened within our Province since that time! As a pilot program within the Earth Care Initiative, Greening the Mount at Mount St. Francis has led the way for diverse Province environmental projects, activities, and successes, both nationally and internationally. The Franciscan Earth Care Initiative continues efforts that promote environmental stewardship and sustainability into our everyday lives.

The Province, through the Franciscan Earth Care Initiative, has committed to the following activities and more:

  • Solar installations at several Province locations.
  • Building renovations using recycled and sustainable materials and resources.
  • Educating walkers, hikers, and community members about nature and the environment within the natural areas of the Province.
  • Educational programs and speakers incorporating nature and spirituality to bring greater awareness of the importance of respecting and protecting the environment.
  • Ways in which the friars and the community can work together to protect the earth.

Featured Events

2023 Earth Day Celebration

04/22/2023
10:00am
The theme for this year’s Earth Day is “Invest in Our Planet.” Join us at Mount Saint Francis for a celebration of Earth Day…
Learn More

Make A Difference

Working Together to Protect the Earth

Do you love nature and want to ensure a more sustainable future for our children and grandchildren? The Franciscan Earth Care Initiative is looking for volunteers!

Stay in touch with the latest Franciscan Earth Care Newsletter!

Need more information?

We would be happy to answer any questions you might have about the Franciscan Earth Care Initiative

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Pope Francis and Laudato Si’

Pope Francis focused the world’s attention on these issues in his 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si (Praised be You…). Then, in July 2018, during the International Conference Saving Our Common Home and the Future Life on Earth, the Pope said:

“Here we can think back on the call that Francis of Assisi received from the Lord in the little church of San Damiano: ‘Go and repair my house, which as you can see, lies in ruins.’ Today, the ‘common home’ of our planet also needs urgently to be repaired and secured for a sustainable future.”

Being Good Stewards of All We Receive

As the Patron Saint of ecology, animals, and nature, St. Francis of Assisi praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God. Franciscan’s care for the earth is now more than ever a top priority. Amidst an ever-changing planet and climate, protecting the environment for future generations while demonstrating sustainability are necessary critical activities for all individuals and communities. Praise be You, my Lord, through our Sister Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruit with colored flowers and herbs.” St. Francis of Assisi The Canticle of the Creatures

Solar Panel Project

What started at Mount Saint Francis, Indiana has become a global intiative for our Province.

Laudato Si Celebration

More than 420 trees were given away at Mount Saint Francis during our 2020 Tree Giveaway in celebration of Laudato Si. It was great to know that five native species trees were given to new homes and eventually will help to clean our air, cool our homes and yards, beautify the environment, and provide shelter for birds and other animals.

Blessing of Nature and Trailhead Kiosk at Mount St. Francis

Fr. John Elmer blesses our first new trailhead kiosk at Mount St. Francis made possible by generous donors and volunteers.

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