Recently, the comprehensive report of the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) on the state of residual waste management made the news. "Residual waste" refers to materials that end up in landfills and incinerators (respectively 96% and 4% in 2019). The facts are overwhelming: the amount of waste in Quebec has increased significantly in recent years. We are going backwards instead of forwards.
In the spirit of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, Congregation de Notre Dame Sisters and Associates in the Kingston, Ontario region have a long history of supporting Home Based Housing for ending homelessness and helping to rebuild lives. Our support continued during the pandemic and for this past Christmas. Donations were collected supporting the purchase of personal items, treats and gift cards. The students of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys School also joined in with donations.
On Sunday, January 30, the Sustainability Committee led sisters and associates in another ZOOM session. Facilitated by Alana Forrester, the group gathered was invited to look at the Mission Orientations 2021- 2026 through the lens of Marguerite Bourgeoys. Over 70 devices were connected (some had more than one person present) as we enjoyed nearly two hours of listening and sharing. Anna Rowley and Karen Volpe served as tech persons keeping things moving. Participants expressed joy, gratitude, and much appreciation for this opportunity to walk with Marguerite and the call to remember stories in our own journey. Great Committee! Great ideas! Great event! Next session will be April 3, with Sister Kathleen Deignan.