My name is Grace and I am 11 years old (the youngest member of Roundfort, Robeen and Carras Eco-Congregation Group). I joined the group in 2022. I first heard of the group at mass and convinced my Dad to join it with me. I really enjoy our meetings as I get to talk to people of all ages and always learn new things about the environment. I also like listening to the stories that they tell me.
Some of the things we have done this year are as follows:
In January, we did collections after mass at the three churches in the parish for any unused Christmas gifts that people were willing to donate to families that are less fortunate than themselves. I helped with the collection in Roundfort Church.
We also potted trees, which were kindly donated from Coillte. Fr. Mike gives all the children in the parish that are making their confirmation a tree to plant and there were also spare trees for anyone in our community to take.
Last Saturday evening in Robeen Church, we had a special mass for Earth hour. Most of the lights were switched off and there were lots of candles lit. The church looked beautiful. The theme of the mass was hope and some of the congregation brought up gifts to symbolise this. I narrated, while the gifts were brought to the altar.
The gifts presented were as follows:
A lighted candle – symbolising the hope we have in God and reminding us light will always overcome darkness;
A tree sapling – Whoever plants a tree, plants hope;
A Trocaire box – symbolising the hope it provides to those less fortunate than us.
We had a lovely choir on the night, where my brother played the piano and they sang hymns appropriate for Earth hour.
Another event we have organised for the coming weekend is litter picking. Groups will meet at all three churches on Saturday morning to tidy up each area. Thanks to all the people who do this, everywhere will be neat and tidy for our Confirmation next Monday.
Overall, I really enjoy being part of the Eco-Congregation group and I would highly recommend becoming a member.