WHEATON—The Wheaton Franciscan campus is one of 100 sites around the world-and the only location in Illinois –to be selected to host Earth Summit 2008. The Wheaton Franciscans are organizing the Oct. 11, 2008, community-wide event on their 60-acre campus in DuPage County, IL. Working in collaboration with the UN Earth Charter Committee, the focus is addressing issues of climate change. Facilitated by the Wheaton Franciscan Office for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), the Earth Summit promises to celebrate the variety of green endeavors already underway in and around DuPage County, beginning with initiatives with the City of Wheaton as well as ventures, by the county government to promote the idea of living green. New ideas and innovative green living will be showcased, and models of fresh environmentally friendly concepts will be featured, such as cooking with solar.
The daylong event begins at 8 a.m. on the restored Wheaton Franciscan prairie with an inspirational interfaith ceremony and procession. The Wheaton Franciscan Motherhouse, Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, and other beautiful locations on the campus will utilized to enhance the event. Highlights include between 40 and 50 exhibitors, panel discussions, informed presentations, artistic expressions and films. Kay Mckeen of Wheaton Environmental Commission will be on hand to measure our carbon footprint along with speakers addressing legislative advocacy opportunities concerning global climate change.
The keynote is Joyce Johnston Rouse (Earth Mama), who not only has an MA in environmental studies but also a Broadway-style song and dance show that breathes fresh air into a landscape of views regarding resource conservation, recycling, composting and more. Throughout the day, families and attendees of all ages are invited to experience the celebration of the goodness of creation-humanity and all species, including the air, water and earth we share. In the spirit of St. Francis and grounded in respect for all, we are inviting our furry and feathered friends as well. A pet blessing is scheduled for 1p.m to feed the interests of our four-legged attendees. And a roving storyteller –Gordelia-is sure to delight the children.
Sr. Sheila Kinsey, OSF and leader of the JPIC, said, “The Wheaton Franciscan Spirit as it concerns the environment stands to promote awareness of the issues, practical suggestions, motivation to action, celebration and networking with like-minded enthusiasts.”
The Earth Summit is an ideal place to jumpstart a commitment to “begin at home” the process of environmental stewardship and respect for all God’s creation.
Below are ES PDF forms to assist you with your participation:
Sponsor_Letter
Levels_of_donations
Green_Exhibitor
Presenters-For further information on being a presenter please contact S. Sheila Kinsey, OSF @ skinsey@wheatonfranciscan.org or 630-909-6636. Please note deadline for presentation information is August 1st.
Promotional_Booklet
The next Earth Summit Committee Meeting TBD:
ES Committee Meeting Minutes:
April 3, 2008
April 24, 2008
May 22, 2008
June 12, 2008
