Relationship with the Earth

Relationship with Earth

“We human beings have not created the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect.” -- Chief Seattle

These wise words attributed to our predecessor on this continent still ring true in clarion call to us. Our planet cries out as never before, beseeching us to pay attention, to change our ways, to walk more gently upon Mother Earth. Francis of Assisi heard the call over 800 years ago and lived a life that witnessed to the brother and sisterhood of all of creation. We are all created by the same Source; all connected and related.

St. Bonaventure wrote: “Open your eyes, alert the ears of your spirit, open your lips and apply your heart so that in all creatures you may see, hear, praise, love and worship, glorify and honor your God, lest the whole world rise against you.” Pope Francis has emphasized the “…moral imperative of assessing the impact of our every action and personal decision on the world around us” (Laudato Si, #208).

Here are some examples of what the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls community is doing to improve our relationship with Mother Earth:

Laudato Sí Action Platform (LSAP)

At the invitation of Pope Francis, our community has joined the LSAP. All men and women of good will are invited to join in this journey to discern and implement concrete actions toward integral ecology, a loving response to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.

Laudato Sí Action Platform God's Plan(et) Article 2023 Action Plan

One Planet Fund

To address the growing concern about the climate emergency the world faces and our own challenge to respond, the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota established the One Planet Fund in 2021. It is a small grant fund to support projects in Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota which promote respect for the earth and bring awareness to the urgent need to protect our environment. Grants of up to $1,500 are awarded three times a year; applications are due November 1, February 1 and July 1.

Guidelines and Application Articles CMC Article

Prairie Restoration

In an attempt to restore natural habitat for the plant, insect, bird, reptile, fish and animal species native to the area, we have undertaken prairie restoration measures on some of the lands that host us. We hope to expand and increase these efforts.

Article Prairie Restorations, Inc.

Pollinator Gardens

A Pollinators committee was formed in August of 2021 to accomplish three tasks: develop a pollinator garden; develop “pocket” areas of native habitat on St. Francis campus, Umbria and Ottertail; and transform the lands into native habitat.

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Peace Garden

Initiated in 2004, this garden on the campus in Little Falls provides habitat for birds and a place of peace and prayer for humans.

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St. Clare Seed Library

The purpose for our seed library is to provide an alternative to genetically modified seeds, increase biodiversity and plant resilience. It also encourages food literacy and education, increases knowledge of gardening and horticulture, helps with sustainability and promotes healthy living and eating.

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Dream Project

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Beeswax Wraps 101