H.O.M.E. (Honoring Our Mother Earth) -
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
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The H.O.M.E. (Honoring Our Mother Earth) Team for Creation Care is an action ministry committed to educating, advising, and working to answer the call of Pope Francis outlined in his inspiring encyclical, Laudato Si'. H.O.M.E. engages Ascension and St. Edmund parishioners, along with our wider community, in being loving, responsible stewards of God's gifts.
We typically meet on the fourth Monday (July 27, 2026) of each month at 7:00 PM in Murphy Hall or McGivern Center of St. Edmund Campus. All are welcome!
> Learn More about Laudato Si' Action PlatformHistory of our Group
The St. Edmund Green Team, as a subgroup of the Peace and Justice Committee, started in October 2014. St. Edmund was the first Catholic parish in Oak Park to do a comprehensive energy audit. The group advocated for Archdiocese divestment from fossil fuels and filed an annual report to the Human Concerns Commission.
Ascension's Creation Care Ministry was created at the launch of Laudato Si’ in 2015 and functioned under the umbrella of the long-standing and vibrant Ascension Peace and Justice Committee. Over 20 members, led by Gina Orlando, fostered parish support, an impressive Advisory Committee, and many successful and ongoing initiatives. The group is proud to associate with the Interfaith Green Network and won a state award from Faith in Place several years ago for its Green Team Creation Care.
The St. Edmund and Ascension team members have united in their common cause!Current Committees
- Chemical Reduction
- Community Garden
- Education and Publicity
- Environmental Book Club
- Native Garden Prayer
- School Green Club
- Solar
- Zero Waste
For more information, please contact Laura Kelley at [email protected].
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Caring for the Earth Video Series - July and August 2026
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Join H+O+M+E and Vine & Branches for a Summer Video Series!
The Caring for the Earth: Stories from Faith Communities film series features faith leaders from diverse traditions across the US who share their experience, strength, and hope. Through the films and discussions, you will deepen your knowledge around faith and climate, be inspired to take action, and strengthen your relationships with other people and creation. Explore why our faith moves us to care for water, work for justice, support biodiversity, center youth, build resiliency and preparedness, and strive for a healthy climate. Check out the trailer!
Participate in any or all of the sessions.- Thursday, July 30 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Ascension’s Parish Center Dining Room
- Thursday, August 6 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at St. Giles Conference Room - Gleeson Building
- Thursday, August 13 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Ascension’s Parish Center Dining Room
- Thursday, August 20 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at St. Giles Conference Room - Gleeson Building
After two twenty-minute videos, we will engage in a lively conversation to share our wisdom.
Contact Sister Sue ([email protected]) or Laura Kelley ([email protected]) for more information or to let us know which dates you plan to attend.
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Creation Care Covenant - During Spring and Summer
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At St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish
Did you sign the Creation Care Covenant yet? This appeal is from the Laudato Si' global project begun by Pope Francis and supported by Pope Leo XIV.
Your signature is your commitment to: Pray, Reduce plastic use, have one meatless meal a week and buy locally. Our signatures are gestures that remind us to try our best to care for Creation. The Covenant is available at the back of the church throughout the summer.
Questions? Contact Sister Sue at [email protected].
> Creation Care Covenant (PDF)
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