Carmel Ryan sent us a report on this event:
On Saturday 20th September 2025, a very interesting day was organised to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the publication of Laudato Si at Knock, International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine.
Panel of Speakers from left to right: Sr Anna Byrne, Éanna Ní Lamhna, Brendan O’Keefe, Jane Mellet and Sheila Murphy.
The first morning session was presented by Éanna Ní Lamhna. Éanna encouraged us to Tread lightly on the earth. She gave us many insights from the scientific view point. She encouraged us to learn more about biodiversity and to take a positive interest in the creatures with whom we share our world. The second session was presented by Jane Mellet who explored Laudato Si, 10 years on – Sowing the seeds of Hope. She shared the idea of the late Joanna Macy – ‘Active Hope, how to face the mess we’re in without going crazy’. The powerful question in this presentation was the ‘Great Turning’.
- What do we need to turn up to?
- What do we need to turn away from?
- What do we need to turn towards?
Jane encouraged to view the film, The Letter.
The first afternoon session was presented by Brendan O’Keefe, Making Laudato Si a Reality – Pathways for Parish Communities. We were invited to do what is possible in our local communities.
- ‘To do nothing’, allowing the grass to grow, no or very little mowing. Allow nature to rejuvenate and wildflowers to return.
- ‘Use less outdoor light’, allow the night sky to be seen and enjoyed, less the night sky amaze us.
Sr Anna Byrne DC presented an information session on the work of Eco Congregation Ireland. She shared examples of what can be achieved when willing and interested people come together. Anna shared how church/parish groups take part in a variety of ways in developing green areas and rejuvenate nature on church land. These groups are participating in the Church-Return to Nature. This project was announced in 2023 by the Irish Bishops Conference. The aim is to return 30% of church lands to nature. Anna explained the award scheme to the assembled group.
The final presentation of the day was by Sheila Murphy the Biodiversity Officer for Mayo County Council. She explained that each county or city council have appointed a Biodiversity Officer. She outlined the work of the officers and made several references to the ongoing work taking place in Knock Shrine as part of the Return to Nature Project.
The day ended with a short panel discussion. It was an informative, interesting and encouraging day, undertaken in a reflective manner. We left encouraged to do what we can and that every action large or small matters.
Sr Anna Byrne presented Nicola Mitchell of Knock Shrine with the Awareness Award from Eco Congregation Ireland.