POMPTON LAKES, N.J. — St. Mary’s Parish here is offering a six-session course about global warming in the recently-dedicated Carnevale Center. Interested participants can register up until Oct. 22.
Northwest Earth Institute has developed a popular program titled “Climate Change” How Do We Change the Course?” designed to facilitate the reflection and dialogue that spurs individuals and communities to action. Classes will meet from from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 24 to Dec. 5.
“More and more people are awakening to the reality of global warming and the enormous challenge that lies ahead,” according to Jackie Schramm, the parish’s Social Justice Ministry director. “People are looking for ways in which they can be a part of the solution.”
“Get ready to explore personal values and habits as they relate to climate change,” Schramm said.
A festive Mass of thanksgiving for the opening of the Carnevale Center, located across the parking lot from the church, was held on Oct. 7. It brought together past pastors including Michael Carnevale, OFM, as well as other friars formerly stationed at St. Mary’s including Michael Harlan, OFM, Francis Gunn, OFM, and Ronald Stark, OFM.
Information about the course is available from Schramm at the parish office, 973-835-0374, ext. 191. Details about the Oct. 7 dedication of the Carnevale Center will appear in the next issue of this newsletter.
The Pompton Lakes parish, of which Kevin Downey, OFM, is pastor, is holding several other programs this fall including:
* An environmental justice youth tour on Oct. 13
* Second annual Oktoberfest on Oct. 13
* Men’s Morning of Reflection on Oct. 20
* Women’s Morning of Reflection on Nov. 3
* Presentation by author Sr. Helen Prejean, a death penalty advocate, on Nov. 9