Mt. Irenaeus celebrates Laudato Si’ with the planting of 10 trees
Author: Mt. Irenaeus
Date Published: October 23, 2025
On Sept. 20, students from St. Bonaventure University and the Mt. Irenaeus community gathered for “Echoes of the Earth: An Open Day Away Celebrating Nature and Autumn,” an event focused on the responsibility we share to care for creation. The event – held at Mt. Irenaeus in West Clarksville, New York, a 40-minute drive from SBU – combined hands-on activities and peaceful contemplation to create a day of connection to the natural world.
In addition to 15 SBU students, the Mt. Irenaeus team (Brothers Kevin Kriso, OFM, Lou McCormick, OFM, and Joe Kotula, OFM, Director of Faith Formation Karen Pulaski, long-term companion Mari Snyder, and Student Ministry Coordinator Natalie Pronio) welcomed locals Mike and Rose who provided the trees.
Mike and Rose demonstrate how to plant a tree to students and the Mt. Irenaeus team. (Photo courtesy of Mt. Irenaeus)
Rose educated the group about the history of the American Chestnut Tree, how it was wiped out by disease in the United States, and how they are working hard to bring it back. These trees will not fully mature until after students have left SBU; a true testament to the impact of their actions. The planting process is part of a broader effort to give back to the environment, while reflecting on how we contribute to it.
Students took part in harvest preparation for the coming autumn and winter months. Activities included picking basil to freeze and preparing tomatoes for salsa. Students were encouraged to take home fresh vegetables and herbs for personal use, creating a greater connection to the land from which it came.
The Mountain’s gardens produce a variety of vegetables throughout the year. Here, students assist with preparing basil to be frozen for use. (Photo courtesy of Mt. Irenaeus)
The Mountain’s tomato harvest is put to good use. Another batch of salsa is nearly ready! (Photo courtesy of Mt. Irenaeus)
They also made dream catchers with items gathered from the property or purchased with nature in mind. Materials included grapevines, wooden beads, natural string and feathers. This student-led initiative emphasized the value of using local materials to put sustainability at the forefront of the conversation
The day also featured a low-carbon-footprint meal prepared with tofu instead of meat, vegetables from the garden, donuts and cider purchased locally, and store-bought items with recyclable packaging.
The day ended with time in Holy Peace Chapel and included a reading of the “Canticle of the Creatures,” a passage from “Laudato Si’,” as well as meditation and conversation about the environment. The students chose to complete their time in nature by stargazing on the field in front of the chapel, pointing out constellations and reveling in the vastness of creation.
All of this reflects the life and mission of Mt. Irenaeus, a community of friars and lay people striving to live lives of simplicity in communion with God, nature, and community. One of Mt. Irenaeus's primary missions is to serve as a ministry to, for and with St. Bonaventure University students.
While student-centered ministry is a focus, Mt. Irenaeus also strives to be a place where generations intersect, differences are embraced and life is celebrated in all of its stages. If you are interested in learning more about Mt. Irenaeus, its mission and vision, or visiting the community, please visit www.mountainonline.org for more information.