CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME: SAGS COMMITMENT TO LAUDATO SI PRINCIPLES
Reported by Paul Oluwafemi, OGUNTEGBE
In the spirit of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, St. Albert the Great Major Seminary, Idowu-Offonran, has embraced a deep commitment to caring for our common home. Nestled within a dense forest, our seminary constantly reminds us of the beauty and interconnectedness of creation. This location not only provides a serene environment for spiritual growth but also calls us to be responsible stewards of the earth.
One of the key practices we have implemented is the separation of waste, with a special focus on recycling materials that can be reused. Each hostel is equipped with at least two waste bins, one for combustible items and the other for non-combustibles before they get to the incinerator. At the incinerator, various containers have also been labelled for varieties of waste products. This initiative helps reduce pollution and fosters a culture of sustainability within our community.
Beyond waste management, we are dedicated to the care of the earth, ensuring that both plants and animals thrive within our seminary grounds. At the heart of our seminary is a large, preserved forest area, along with additional forested spaces on our property that remain intentionally undisturbed. These forests serve as sanctuaries for various animals, which we affectionately regard as our neighbours. By protecting these natural habitats, we embrace the call to respect all living creatures.
Moreover, we have adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using waste food as organic manure to enrich our farmland. This not only reduces waste but also contributes to the fertility of the soil, enhancing the growth of plants and trees like various flowers, cashews, avocados, pears, shower shop trees, and mangoes throughout the seminary.
We are equally committed to preserving the natural beauty of our surroundings by maintaining the untouched state of our landscape. This effort reflects our dedication to cherishing and protecting the gifts of creation, aligning with the vision of Laudato Si.
In addition, we incorporate an environmental awareness weekend into our seminary calendar. During this time, a committee dedicated to the implementation of Laudato Si principles educates the seminary community on the importance of upholding these values for the common good. By integrating these practices into our daily lives, we strive to embody the teachings of Pope Francis and inspire others to join us in the mission of caring for our common home.