Saint Edward Parish Family

Today we recognize that the earth provides for all of us, and we commit ourselves to caring for it. We take only what we need, and we replenish what we take.

Food, including the ingredients for bread, is one thing that the earth provides for us. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Guide Pyramid recommends the following daily allotments: 6-11 servings of grain, 3-5 servings of vegetables, 2-4 servings of fruit, 2-3 servings of dairy foods, and 5-7 ounces of meat or fish or the equivalent in beans or nuts. Fat and sugar should be eaten sparingly.

Evaluate your family’s diet. Celebrate Earth Day by resolving to take only what you need!

God of wisdom, we see your love in the rising sun and waning tide,
you grace Earth with life in mysterious variety.

Earth Day - Star Ledger Photo

Every thing has meaning, is blessing; each of us is charged with their care -
from the smallest creature to the ocean’s depth.

Grant us wisdom to know your ways of love and gentle kindness.
Give us the mind to learn what we do not know but long to understand
so that we may honor and nurture all that makes us one with you. Amen.

-Diane Lopez Hughes

Did you know that one tree in its average 50-year lifetime can clean-up $62,000 of air pollution? Trees and people keep each other alive. While trees give off oxygen for us to breathe, they inhale carbon dioxide, which trees thrive upon. Trees do other wonderful things, too; they recycle water, prevent soil erosion, and provide homes for animals and birds.

Planting a tree is great fun, and one of the best things you can do to save the Earth. The tree will reduce the carbon dioxide in the air, provide beauty and shade and attract wildlife. Every year, you and your tree will grow, proud to know you are both helping the earth.