On Sunday, 15 April 2018, our Catechism students showcased an
exhibition and performance, in line with the theme “Care for the Common Home” (Laudato
Si). The students, along with their parents and teachers, gathered at Dewan Monsignor Anthony Thomas at 10.30am,
where products crafted with recycled material such as aluminum cans, old
newspapers, magazines, egg cartons, plastic, plastic bottles, and aluminum
foil, were displayed.
Some of the recycled exhibits were quite interesting and
informative, and there were some eye-catching craft items too. There was a
fancy dress display, using only recycled materials such as plastic, old CDs and
paper which highlighted the importance of recycling, as well as to remind us
not to deliberately litter or waste precious resources, and to reduce the use
of plastic.
I was happy to see parents attend the exhibition and enjoy the
children’s presentations. A video slide was shown to parents, informing them on
how to protect, preserve and restore the Earth’s natural environment. The objective of this awareness programme was to awaken the
parents’ role in educating their children about the importance of conserving
our environment. This event has sparked a conscious
decision amongst our children and parents to make a serious effort and take
steps towards being responsible and accountable for the protection of our
planet.
In what ways can we help preserve and protect our environment for
the next generation, and
reduce the destruction of eco-systems?
a a) We can avoid burning garbage. Instead, separate your trash and
recycle items such as cans, cartons, paper and plastic bottles at designated
recycling centers. Recycling items will help
lessen global warming and reduce climate change.
b) Do not litter rubbish everywhere and avoid throwing chemicals down
the drain because this can cause air, water and land pollution. Dispose
chemical waste responsibly.
c) Reduce the amount of
water, electricity and petrol we use. Turn off lights, televisions,
air-conditioners and other appliances when not in use or when you leave the
room.
d) We should practice using our own reusable bags and
containers when shopping for clothes, books or food. This will reduce the need
plastic bags, which in turn, reduces waste and pollution. You also can save
twenty-sen each time you shop!
e) Print only when necessary in order to save paper and
recycle the paper after using it.
f) If possible, plant
vegetables in your own backyard.
g) Avoid driving your car
if it is a short distance. or car pool when you come for Mass rather than
driving separately.
Let’s play our part in
conserving the environment in order to protect the future of our planet. Our
efforts need not be on a grand scale - every little sacrifice, every little
change in attitude - towards the betterment of our planet, helps. I believe
that you can make this positive change in your daily lifestyle, to ultimately
contribute towards the well-being of our home, Mother Earth.
“What kind of world do we want to leave to those who
come after us, to children who are now growing up?” (POPE FRANCIS’ Encyclical “Laudato Si’ – On the Care of Common home”).
Jesus says, “I am the Vine, you are the branches,” (Jn 15: 5). Jesus is the True Vine. The word “true” means, “genuine and real.” The word “vine” literally means, “root,” or “trunk.” Since we are abiding in Him, we are invited to bear good fruit. 
