The Laudato Si’ Mission of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo in Tanzania and Uganda
The Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo in Tanzania and Uganda are currently leading several initiatives to promote Laudato Si’ that have inspired the local community to care for their common home and listen to the cry of the poor.
The Sisters, originally from Wez, Belgium, referred to their eco-spiritual role as a calling to be “sowers of hope” who cultivate a deep sense of reverence for the sacredness of creation and take responsibility for the well-being of our common home.
The congregation’s objective is to transform all of their communities into “Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum Centers” by adopting green initiatives to preserve and restore natural resources in addition to caring for creation in a vulnerable world. All of their work is done in a manner that focuses on promoting awareness of ecological issues, advocating for sustainable practices at all levels, and initiating collaborative ventures in the utilization of natural resources.
For example, in Uganda, the Sisters started a tree-planting Eco Club in order to contend with the harsh weather (heat) in Nebbi that has been affecting the lives and livelihoods of the people for the past five years.
The Sisters also work at schools generating awareness through creating orchards and gardens, where children can plant and cultivate their own food. The Sisters are convinced that “the future of our world starts with educating the younger generation, which includes caring for Mother Earth”.
In addition, the Sisters took the initiative to protect a seasonal river from sand mining so that the water catchment area could be left undisturbed by the villagers and used for other activities. The Sisters informed the government officials at national and local levels, who then visited the site and encouraged the congregation to continue their work on the issue.
As one of the Sisters put it: “The environment in Tanzania and Uganda gives us countless benefits that we will never be able to repay our entire lives as they are connected with the forest, trees, animals, water, and air. The forest and trees filter the air and absorb harmful gasses. Plants purify water, reduce the chances of flooding, and maintain natural balance among many other benefits. Moreover, the environment keeps a close check on how everything within it works together for optimal functioning. It regulates the vital systems that are essential for the ecosystem. Besides, it maintains the culture and quality of life on Earth.”