Forming young people who care for creation is an important part of the Marist mission today. From April 24–26, more than sixty Marist youth and educators gathered at the Marist Brothers Center at Esopus for the 4th Annual Marist Earth Day Weekend, a time of prayer, learning, and reflection along the Hudson River.
Centered on the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” the weekend invited students to explore ecological responsibility through the lens of Marist spirituality and the teachings of Laudato Si’.
The program began Friday evening with community-building activities, introductions to the Province’s Laudato Si’ Action Plan, and presentations on the ecological importance of the Hudson River. Students also viewed an excerpt from the environmental documentary The Keeper, which highlights the ongoing effort to protect the river and its ecosystems.
Saturday brought students outdoors for hands-on environmental exploration. After morning prayer along the river, Marist youth conducted field observations and collected water and leaf samples to better understand the health of the Hudson River ecosystem. Guided by facilitators, students explored questions about water quality, biodiversity, and pollution, including the emerging issue of landfill leachate entering waterways through wastewater treatment systems.
Throughout the afternoon, students participated in workshops designed to deepen both ecological knowledge and spiritual awareness. Sessions included birdwatching, renewable energy exploration, native planting, and contemplative forest bathing. These experiences invited students to encounter creation not only as a scientific reality but also as a sacred gift entrusted to our care.
The evening featured a Mass for Creation followed by a collaborative Town Hall event in which Marist youth took on the roles of community stakeholders to debate real environmental challenges affecting the Hudson River watershed. By exploring the perspectives of environmental advocates, local communities, government agencies, and industry leaders, students experienced the complexity of environmental decision-making and the shared responsibility involved in protecting our planet.
On Sunday morning, school groups gathered to reflect on what they had learned and to develop plans for strengthening ecological initiatives in their own communities. Representatives from each school’s Green Team met to share ideas and commitments for the coming year.
The weekend concluded with a Commitment Ceremony, inviting students to carry the spirit of the experience back to their schools and ministries.
Rooted in the Marist tradition of presence, simplicity, and family spirit, the Earth Day Weekend continues to form young Marists who recognize both the beauty of creation and the responsibility we share to protect it.
