Wellbeing Way

Living Laudato Si’ in Action

As we approach our upcoming Open Day, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how we care for our environment from a Franciscan perspective. At Mount Alvernia we remind our girls that our campus is more than just buildings and grounds, it’s a shared space where our values of respect, stewardship, and community come alive every day.

Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ reminds us of our responsibility to care for “our common home” with attention, gratitude, and care. This year, in line with Laudato Si’ 2026, we are encouraged to deepen this commitment. 

Caring for our environment also helps our environment care for us in return. In fact, the Mental Health Foundation has found that people who are more connected with their environment are usually happier in life and report increased feelings of calmness, joy and creativity as well as lower depression and anxiety (2026). These positive outcomes are only improved upon by pro-environmental activities which can lead to natural improvements that we can continue to enjoy. 

Small actions make a big difference, and there are many ways we can care for our environment in practical, meaningful ways:

• Help maintain gardens and outdoor areas by planting native flowers, pulling weeds, and keeping paths clear. 
• Respect trees and shrubs and consider your environmental footprint as you move through these spaces. Consider composting.
• Remind your children to keep their shared eating spaces clean by disposing of rubbish and recyclables correctly. Model this in your everyday routines, encourage others to do the same and consider reusable containers and cutlery to reduce single-use plastics. Buying seasonal food can also be a great way to reduce waste!

• Encourage stewardship by taking responsibility for communal spaces. Tidy desks, straighten chairs, and ensure recycling and compost bins are used appropriately. 

   

Through these small acts others will notice not only a beautiful, welcoming space but also the results of our collective care. Every tidy space, every healthy garden, and every mindful gesture reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship and the spirit of Laudato Si’.

Let’s continue to take pride in our common home by looking after our campus, parks and homes showing that as part of the Mount Alvernian community, we live our values with integrity, compassion, and care for creation. 

From Hope to Action

This week at assembly, we paused to reflect on Laudato Si’. Guided by our Franciscan spirit, our House Captains brought forward symbols of creation, soil, water, light, a lunchbox, recycled paper and sculpted hands, each representing a simple but meaningful call to action. Under this year’s theme, From Hope to Action, we were invited to do more than just notice creation… but to respond.