Inaugural Laudato Seeds of Change Program Plants Seeds of Hope

Over seven faith-filled days in June, participants in the inaugural Laudato Seeds of Change immersion program got their hands dirty at the Cuvilly Arts & Earth Center and found space for prayer and reflection at the Notre Dame Spirituality Center in Ipswich, Massachusetts.

Julie Barbosa (left) and Claire Giffun (center) repair a wheelbarrow before tackling landscaping projects at Cuvilly Arts & Earth Center with help from director Gray Haselgard.

Developed by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur U.S. East-West Province, Laudato Seeds of Change is designed to inspire women to integrate faith, environmental stewardship and social justice into their daily lives.

The seven women arrived from across the country as strangers. They left with new friendships, a deeper understanding of God’s call to care for creation and a renewed commitment to live more intentionally in our interconnected world.

Rooted in Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, the weeklong program invited participants to see care for the Earth as both a spiritual practice and a call to action. Through study, prayer and hands-on work in the gardens and with the animals at Cuvilly, they explored how environmental justice and faith are deeply connected.

“I like the idea and language of ‘co-creation,'” said Maeve Gallagher. “I had never thought about creation in that way, and it resonated with me. I will be reflecting and praying on it more.”

It’s no exaggeration to say the week was transformative.

“I was not expecting the amount of hope that I feel now,” said Janet Eppoliti. “This week changed my outlook on my relationship with the earth.”

Plans are already underway for the 2027 Laudato Seeds of Change cohort. Watch for future announcements on how to apply.

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Laudato Seeds of Change was led by Kathryn Yanik, province director of justice, peace and integrity of creation, and Sabrina Harper, vocations promoter, with guidance from Sisters Mary Boretti, Mary Alice McCabe and Pat Rolinger, SNDdeN.