In 2015, Kathy Gosh and Marijane Reilly established the Caring For Our Common Home Task Force at All Saints Church in Syracuse, New York, following the publication of Pope Francis‘s encyclical on environmental care, “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home.”
Both retired science teachers were deeply moved by the pope’s message and felt compelled to take action. Their journey began with hope that they could make a difference in preventing environmental damage.
Gosh, who spent the final years of her teaching career at the Onondaga Nation School, witnessed the effects of fracking, which heightened her awareness. Inspired by their shared passion, Gosh and Reilly embarked on a mission to raise awareness and enact change within their community.
Syracuse Catholic Parish (Credits: Syracuse.com)
Over the years, the task force’s efforts have surpassed their initial goals, culminating in their recent 2024 Cool Congregations Challenge win in the “Community Inspiration” category.
This prestigious award recognizes outstanding efforts by religious congregations in combating climate change within their facilities and communities.
Various initiatives have marked their journey, including educational presentations, community events, and advocacy campaigns. They have successfully engaged parishioners and broader community members, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for environmental stewardship.
One of their key accomplishments was creating a “spiritual conversion” journey for parishioners, which included special liturgies and nature walks focused on caring for the earth.
They also played a crucial role in providing sanctuary to over 200 Catholic Congolese refugees and asylum-seekers, exemplifying their commitment to compassion and solidarity.
Syracuse Catholic Parish (Credits: Spectrum News)
Despite their successes, Gosh and Reilly remain focused on the future. They aspire to establish their parish as a model for environmental activism and sustainability, advocating for meaningful change at both the local and national levels.
Their vision includes building a new green church campus and addressing pressing issues like climate change denial and food insecurity in Syracuse’s poorest communities.
Their dedication to environmentalism is rooted in their spiritual beliefs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving the earth for future generations. As they continue their journey, they hope to inspire others to join them in caring for our typical home.
