Mangaluru: The Infant Jesus Shrine observed World Environment Day with a special programme promoting environmental awareness and ecological responsibility, during which nearly 1,000 saplings were distributed to the faithful.
The event, held at the shrine premises in Bikarnakatte, highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and encouraged families to actively participate in protecting nature by planting and nurturing trees.
Fr John Francis Sequeira calls for responsible stewardship
Rev. Fr. John Francis Sequeira, Provincial Superior of the Karnataka-Goa Province of the Discalced Carmelites, attended the programme as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. Sequeira emphasised that human beings are caretakers of God’s creation and have a moral responsibility to protect the environment.
“Every human being is a steward of creation and not its owner. Since we are only stewards, we have the responsibility to protect, nurture, and preserve the beauty of God’s creation. We have no right to destroy what belongs to God,” he said.
Referring to the teachings of Pope Francis and his environmental encyclical Laudato Si’, Fr. Sequeira noted that care for creation is not merely an environmental concern but also a spiritual and moral obligation.
“The care of creation is not merely an environmental issue but a moral and spiritual responsibility. Each one of us must walk the path shown by Pope Francis and adopt a lifestyle that respects nature and promotes sustainability. I hope that the green revolution initiated at the Infant Jesus Shrine will inspire people throughout Mangaluru and beyond to become responsible caretakers of our common home,” he added.
Sapling distribution promotes environmental action
Following the address, free saplings were distributed to participants as part of the shrine’s initiative to encourage environmental conservation and increase green cover in the region.
Organisers said the distribution drive aimed to motivate families to contribute towards a cleaner and greener environment by planting trees in their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities.
The programme also served as an opportunity to raise awareness about climate change, ecological sustainability, and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.
Clergy and faithful participate
The programme was compered by Mrs. Evelyn Rodrigues.
Among those present were Rev. Fr. Melvin D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery; Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine; Rev. Fr. Dominic Pinto of the Diocese of Lucknow; and Rev. Fr. Ashwath D’Souza.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to care for the environment and work towards building a more sustainable future through responsible action and stewardship.
