The Global Catholic Climate Movement (catholicclimatemovement.global) has released its Lenten Calendar 2021 that is focused on concrete actions we can take each week to improve the planet as well as ourselves.
Lent is a time of preparation for Easter and the celebration of the Paschal Mystery. During this time of fasting and renewal, we will embark upon a journey of ecological conversion through reflection, repentance, and renewal. Together.
For Week 4 of Lent, we are asked to fast from unnecessary energy usage:
Go on an electricity fast. Can you find ways to reduce your electricity use this week? Watch this eight-minute TED Talk at on how we – yes, you, your neighbor, and all of us – are the “most overlooked resource to get us to a sustainable energy future.”
Stop wasting energy in your home: turn off the lights when you leave the room, turn down that thermostat when you are sleeping, leave the house, and just in general. Turn off or unplug unused monitors, TVs, printers, and other idling appliances.
And speaking of idling, never leave your car engine running when you are not moving: car idling is a big waste of energy. And drive less, of course. Walk, bicycle, car pool, or take the bus. Or if you must, batch up trips so you are driving less.
As a follow-up to my earlier post on socially responsible investing, I am hosting a meetup on earth-friendly investing on Sunday, March 14. Learn more & RSVP.
You can download the Laudato Si Lent Calendar at https://bit.ly/3slTmFN. Next week, it’s time to focus on plastics.
Working together, we can help take care of our common home.
Paul Litwin
Saint Francis of Assisi at St John the Evangelist 