On Care for Our Common Home

Sisters of the Living Word Corporate Stance on Care of our Common Home

To stand for the Care of Earth personally and corporately by our daily actions and work to support civil policies for the Care of Earth.

In June 2006, SLW and Associates formally endorsed the Earth Charter, with the commitment to “. . . take on, joyfully, trustingly, and courageously as a sacred trust, the protection of Earth’s vitality diversity and beauty.” (The Earth Charter). Our corporate stance at this time continues our commitment in this urgent need.

  • Across the country the Sisters of the Living Word have been a part of the Nuns on the Bus giving voice to the voiceless and encouraging voters rights and registration.
  • The Sisters of the Living Word advocate for immigrants in Illinois and pray with and counsel detainees at the McHenry Detention Center; some are members of the post detention team through Interfaith Committee for Detained Immigrants and meet with released detainees to provide for their needs.  Associate, Carol Kelzer, advocates for immigrants through the Mary J. Treglia Community House in Sioux City, IA.  Executive Director, Amy Chabra, says, “Our community is so blessed to have Carol.  Carol is a wonderful advocate for immigrants and their children.”
  • Anti-human trafficking efforts are taking place in Minnesota and Illinois.  Students are being educated about the human sex and labor trafficking industry.  Luanne Wilhelm, SLW, is a member of Illinois Women Religious Against Human Trafficking.  They plan annual conferences and serve as a resource to parishes in in Illinois.
  • In Michigan, Associates of the Sisters of the Living Word, have helped to renovate and repair a vandalized home for a homeless family. Jo Jo’s House in Flint, MI is now the residence of a family with three young children.  Renae Rowser, a mentor for the family living in JoJo house in Flint reports the following: The family is doing well, despite some hardships that have occurred recently. The father had a job, but due to ill health he is unable to work anymore.  He began dialysis this week.  He is at home watching the 2 yr. old while the mother works and the 2 children are in school. Renae says they have great attitudes, a positive outlook, and are very grateful for the help they are receiving and advice given, carrying out what is suggested.
  •  Preserving Louisiana’s Coastline:  Impacted in 2005 by Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, the islands were further damaged by the 2010 British Petroleum oil spill.  The islands protect New Orleans from wind and water while they provide refuge for pelicans and migratory birds.

The coastal preservation project helps fulfill the promise made in 2008 when the Sisters signed the 2005 Earth Charter.  The projects coincides with Pope Francis’ request to care for the environment.

Sisters of the Living Word and Associates have nurtured, grown and then planted seaside goldenrod and blue iris bulbs on two Gulf Coast barrier islands.  Associate, Judge Joy Lobrano and her husband, Hon. Jay Lobrano, founded the Plaquemines Coastal Preservation Foundation.  The foundation’s goal is to preserve one Gulf of Mexico barrier island at a time.