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The Eco-Mission
As part of the
Oblate Ecological Initiative (OEI) Darrell Rupiper, has been going to
Oblate parishes and institutions preaching “Eco-Missions”. The missions
are designed to be spiritual experiences and consciousness raising
events as well as springboards to action.
This ministry represents an effort to implement the Environmental
Resolution that was adopted by the U.S. Province as well as the dictates
of The Vade Mecum on Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation.
Parishioners/participants are invited to become more deeply aware that
“Heaven and Earth are full of God’s Glory”! Fr. Darrell attempts to
nourish a sense of awe, wonder, reverence and gratitude because he is
convinced that we will not be moved to save that which we do not love.
They are also reminded that what was given to us as a paradise, a
veritable wonderland is quickly being turned into a wasteland.
The story of the unfolding universe as revealed by science is taught and
ritualized in what is a moving ceremony for the people.
On the second weekend each parishioner receives a list of 27 practical
Earth-Care suggestions and the following week is asked at Mass to make a
written commitment stating what action he/she will take. These
commitment sheets are held high during a prayer lead by the celebrant
and repeated by the congregation at the offertory of the Mass.
Father is at a parish for three successive weekends and two full weeks.
He preaches at all of the weekend liturgies and during the week offers
four evening sessions in Spanish and/or English as needed during the
week. DVDs, videos, articles, books, and magazines are made available to
participants.
Some pastors have encouraged parish groups to attend these sessions
asking its leadership to cancel their regular meeting for that week.
Leadership in the parish is encouraged to attend the sessions so that
they in turn can be knowledgeable in the subject matter.
A key component of these Eco-Missions is a final organizational meeting
for those who want to learn more and work together in trying to preserve
a healthy quality of life on our planet. At that meeting temporary
leadership is surfaced, practical possible activities are brain-stormed
and a folder of resources are left with each group. Each group
designates a person who will be in contact with Fr. Darrell.
He welcomes the opportunity to talk to other groups such as senior
citizens, CCD classes or other school children. Radio, newspaper and
television interviews are also welcomed.
Father is currently at his thirty-first parish. He reports that
parishioners frequently express their gratitude for the fact that this
topic is being address from the pulpit and dealt with in our churches.
He says that pastors and staff always express surprise at the number of
people attending the sessions.
For more information:
drupiper2000@hotmail.com
5531 S. Kenwood Av.
Chicago, IL 60637
773-493-8917
cell 760-469-7323
As part of his
ministry, he has provided
contemplative quotes regarding the integrity of creation.
A profile of Fr. Rupiper in Oblates Magazine
One activity which the
Eco-Mission undertakes is the Cosmic Walk. Please
click here to see pictures of and learn more about this
aspect of Fr. Rupiper's work.
Oblate Ecological Initiative
4350 Levis Lane
Godfrey, IL 62035
618-467-2104
Contact
Rev. Darrell Rupiper, OMI
www.lavistaELC.org
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