Call to Serve

Sunday, April 6, 2025

### Lantau Tai O and Yih O Village: Cultivating a Laudato Si Garden

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Lantau Island, Tai O and the nearby Yih O village are not only known for their rich cultural heritage and breathtaking views but also for a progressive initiative aimed at fostering environmental stewardship. The Catholic Church, through the dedicated efforts of Claretian missionaries, is spearheading the development of a Laudato Si Garden in this picturesque region. This initiative reflects a profound commitment to educating the community about ecological responsibility while enhancing the natural beauty of the area.

#### The Essence of the Laudato Si Garden

Inspired by Pope Francis’s encyclical *Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home*, the Laudato Si Garden serves as a living testament to the call for ecological awareness and action. By creating a space that celebrates the beauty of creation, the garden aims to engage visitors and locals alike in a dialogue about sustainability, biodiversity, and the urgent need to protect our planet.

The garden will feature native plants, herbs, and educational signage that highlights the importance of each species in the local ecosystem. It will serve not only as a serene escape but also as an interactive learning environment where people can discover the delicate balance of nature and the role they play in preserving it.

#### Educational Value and Community Engagement

The Claretian missionaries envision the Laudato Si Garden as a hub for educational programs focusing on environmental conservation. Workshops, guided tours, and community events will provide opportunities for residents, particularly the youth, to learn about sustainable practices, the significance of biodiversity, and the impact of climate change on their local environment.

By integrating environmental education into the fabric of community life, the garden aims to cultivate a sense of stewardship among the residents of Tai O and Yih O. This initiative encourages individuals to take actionable steps in their daily lives, fostering a culture of sustainability that can ripple through future generations.

#### Protecting Nature in a Changing Landscape

Tai O, often referred to as the "Venice of Hong Kong," is renowned for its stilt houses and vibrant fishing culture. However, the area faces challenges from urbanization and environmental degradation. The establishment of the Laudato Si Garden is a proactive response to these challenges, emphasizing the need for restoration and protection of the natural environment.

By promoting native flora, the garden will help to restore local habitats and support wildlife, enhancing the ecological resilience of the area. The project not only seeks to beautify the landscape but also plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving the natural heritage of Lantau Island.

#### A Spiritual and Communal Journey

The Laudato Si Garden is more than just an ecological project; it is a spiritual journey for the community. It embodies the teachings of the Church, reminding us of our responsibility to care for creation. Through prayer, reflection, and action, the garden will serve as a space for spiritual growth and communal bonding.

As the Claretian missionaries guide this initiative, they invite everyone—regardless of their faith—to join in this vital mission. The garden stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and the shared responsibility we all carry in nurturing our planet.

#### Conclusion

The Laudato Si Garden in Lantau Tai O and Yih O village is a groundbreaking initiative that bridges spirituality, education, and environmental conservation. It offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with nature, learn about sustainable practices, and deepen their connection to creation. As this project grows, it holds the promise of inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards dedicated to protecting our planet for future generations. In the words of Pope Francis, it is a call to "care for our common home," and this garden is a beautiful step toward fulfilling that mission.

Saturday, April 5, 2025

Laudato Si in Lantau

Fr. Jojo Ancheril, a Claretian missionary and assistant parish priest at Epiphany Parish in Mui Wo, has been instrumental in fostering spiritual and communal renewal in Tai O, a historic fishing village on Lantau Island. His work aligns closely with the ethos of *Laudato Si’*, blending ecological awareness with pastoral care.

Key Initiatives and Contributions

1. Meet St. Joseph Exhibition

In 2021, Fr. Jojo organized the *Meet St. Joseph* exhibition at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel, commemorating the 150th anniversary of St. Joseph’s designation as patron of the universal Church. The exhibition featured art, videos, and a striking 3-meter statue of the *Sleeping St. Joseph*, a devotion popularized by Pope Francis. Pilgrims were encouraged to place prayer intentions under the statue, symbolizing trust in divine providence and intercession .

- **Connection to Laudato Si’**: The exhibition emphasized humility, silent service, and care for family—values mirroring the encyclical’s call for selfless stewardship of creation. St. Joseph’s role as a protector resonates with ecological guardianship. As we are preparing to celebrate the 10 th anniversary of Laudato Si good to reflect of the effects of fruits of this initiative in Tai O and Yih O

2. **Community Engagement**:

Fr. Jojo’s efforts extend to revitalizing Tai O’s Catholic heritage. The chapel, reopened in 2012, serves as a hub for spiritual activities and preparations for its 2023 centenary. His work emphasizes preserving cultural and spiritual roots while fostering inclusivity—a theme echoed in *Laudato Si’*’s advocacy for *social ecology* .

3. **Integrating Faith and Ecology**:

While not explicitly detailed in the search results, the Claretians’ global advocacy for justice and environmentalism—such as their participation in UN forums and Earth Hour events—suggests that Fr. Jojo’s ministry likely incorporates ecological education and sustainable practices, aligning with the congregation’s focus on *Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC)*

### **Synthesis: Laudato Si’ in Action**

Fr. Jojo’s work exemplifies the encyclical’s vision by:

- **Promoting Humility and Service**: St. Joseph’s quiet dedication mirrors the encyclical’s call to reject exploitation and embrace sacrificial love .

- **Fostering Community Resilience**: By revitalizing Tai O’s spiritual heritage, he strengthens social bonds essential for addressing ecological and economic challenges .

- **Encouraging Contemplation**: The emphasis on prayer and reflection aligns with *Laudato Si’*’s invitation to see nature as a “sacrament of communion” .

In conclusion, Fr. Jojo Ancheril’s mission in Tai O embodies the Claretian commitment to integrating faith, justice, and care for creation—a living response to Pope Francis’ urgent call in *Laudato Si’*.