Planting trees along the Ganges

Posted by Spalding Hurst

November 10, 2020


On Nov. 6, teachers and students of Nazareth Academy, Mokama, were privileged and honored to be part of a tree-planting drive. The goal was to plant 5,000 trees on the bank of the Ganges River. A bus was sent to pick up the staff and students. About 60 students and teachers joined planting tree saplings of all kinds.

Due to the pandemic, the school invited only a limited number of students. The saplings were planted using a modern scientific technique to create a forest on the Ganges river bank, strengthening the barrier for the river in the future.

This part of Bihar has no forest as it is the Gangetic Plain. Hence the students have no idea what a forest really is. They were pleased to be instrumental in creating a future forest in Mokama, especially on the bank of the Holy River Ganga. It could be a coming attraction for all those who visit here and live in Mokama.

The commandant, Praveen Sharma, addressed the group and urged them to be responsible citizens of a bright and new clean India. We were then treated to a high tea party. He thanked the team for the contribution to making the campaign successful.

Enlightened and happy, everyone returned home, carrying in our hearts the Ganges’ serene flowing waters, the cool breeze, the contact with the soil, and handling of every tree sapling with tender love and care. Truly nature heals us.

Sister Anila Monippallikalayil

 

12 Comments

  1. Liz

    The Earth must be singing psalms of joy and thanksgiving! Thanks be for you!

    Reply
  2. Elizabeth Field, SCNA

    This effort and accomplishment makes me happy and hopeful! Thanks to all and blessings!

    Reply
  3. Rosemarie Kirwan

    This was someone’s excellent idea, and a magnificent accomplishment by the students. May such efforts continue to spread! Congratulations to all involved.

    Reply
  4. Carolyn Cromer

    What wonderful work, continuing the mission to care for Earth. This is a legacy these students will remember and hopefully see the rest of their lives.

    Reply
  5. Eugenie Coakley

    Congratulations on this project – significant for the earth, participants, and future generations. There is an upcoming SCNA conference with an environmental focus. Perhaps we can find a way to highlight this project during the weekend.
    Thank you!

    Reply
  6. Sister Marianne scn

    How wonderful!. Lasting systemic change. Teaching the staff and students to be co-creators, you have created more oxytocin in many. Blessings on your futuristic endeavors.

    Reply
  7. Sister Luke

    Absolutely wonderful!
    Thank you!
    Sr. Luke

    Reply
  8. Barbara Gilmetti

    You have given 5000 gifts to our earth!
    Thank you so much!

    Reply
  9. Sarah Ferriell

    A thousand trees in full bloom someday – a dream come true, is exciting to think about! Thank you for sharing this great venture.

    Reply
  10. Ann Palatty

    May Ganga Mata protect the efforts to care for Mother Earth. It is really true that those living on the Bihar flat land do not know the beauty of a forest.

    Reply
    • Maria Brocato

      What a special way to care for the earth and honor India’s holy Ganges River!

      Reply
  11. Louise Smith

    Great work. Blessings

    Reply

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