Marist journey from ego to eco: Maris Stella College distributes tree plants

Maris Stella College, Negombo carried out a plant distribution programme for the fourth consecutive ocaasion on Vesak Full Moon Poya Day (May 30), which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Gautama Buddha. Organised by the Marist Eco Friends and the Marist Laity, this noble initiative received the fullest support from the respected brothers, teachers, parents, and past pupils

By Jude Fernando

“Marist Journey from Ego to Eco” was one of the key statements regarding the environment made at the 22nd Marist General Chapter. 

It conveys that human beings are not the masters of nature, but merely small participants within it. Therefore, it emphasises the need for humanity to move forward as partners of nature, rather than manipulating it out of arrogance for personal gain. The ‘Marist Eco Friends’ Environmental Association was established to carry this modern concept forward. At a time when deforestation is occurring rapidly in a country like Sri Lanka, Maris Stella College is committed to this endeavour with the goal of re-establishing a green canopy. 

*It is for this reason that we carried out our plant distribution programme for the fourth consecutive time on Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Gautama Buddha.

Organised by the Marist Eco Friends and the Marist Laity, this noble initiative received the fullest support from the respected brothers, teachers, parents, and past pupils.

While marking the special occasion and with the aim to plant more trees, nearly five thousand plants of various species were distributed. They included a variety of saplings, including timber, fruit and vegetable plants suitable for cultivation. On the request of principals, plants were also distributed among ten schools in Negombo.

The organisers thanked the Principals of Maris Stella College, Negombo Rev. Br.Sunanda Alwis and Rev. Fr. Terrence Fernando.