Sowers of Justice Environmental Network's

St. Francis Ecological Award Winners
2003

Anthony Flaccavento received the first St. Francis Ecological Award for an individual for his work in founding and leading Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD).  This group's goal is to help communities build a more sustainable economy from networks of small, local endeavors.  Its task is to transform two important components of Appalachia’s economy -- agriculture and timber. 

Anthony, who was director of the Appalachian Office of Justice and Peace some years ago, promoted ecology as an important justice issue in the Diocese.  He and the Ecological Working Group developed the Habits of Creation workshop. 

Contact: Anthony Flaccavento at (276) 623-1121 or <http://www.appsusdev.org>.

 

The Well Retreat Center in Smithfield, Virginia received the St. Francis Ecological Award for a group for its creation-centered ambiance.  It is a place of meditation gardens, a permanent cosmic walk where one can reflect on the awe and wonder of the universe story.

The Well has a beautiful lake and contains the sounds and sights of creation.  Sustainability practices are evident in the daily operations of the center.

Contact: Sr. Nancy Healy at (757) 255-2366 or <http://www.thewellretreatcenter.org>.

 

Voices That Challenge received the St. Francis Ecological Award for youth.  They are a regional high school & young adult social justice movement.  Voices promotes a deeper understanding of the holy relationship of humanity to creation.  In 2002 they participate in the Sea Turtle Watch program where guided just-hatched turtles to the ocean and new life.

In a mixture of fun and service, the Voices sponsor an annual Clean the Sound Kayaking Adventure on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  Participation in a Native American pow-wow gave the Voices an opportunity to appreciate another culture, one that sees all of creation as sacred.  All Voices activities include a faith reflection on the task at hand. 

Contact: Teresa Stanley at (252) 255-1981 or <teresastanley@nethosters.com>.

 
For information about the Sowers of Justice Environmental Network,
contact Clare McBrien at (276) 686-5039 or <
cmcbrien@richmonddiocese.org>.