Location and Significance
In Cerro Colorado of the Renca commune, Santiago de Chile, stands the Laura Vicuña Sanctuary, which is dedicated to the blessed Chilean figure. This gathering place serves as a vegetation and spiritual refuge. Located to the north of Santiago, an area struggling with a shortage of green spaces due to geographical and economic constraints, the sanctuary provides a much-needed breath of fresh air.
As Trinidad Donoso, the sanctuary’s Communications Manager shares, “We need to strengthen this meeting place. A space that belongs to all of us.”
130th Anniversary Celebration
Recently, the Renca municipality celebrated its 130th anniversary in partnership with the Laura Vicuña Foundation in a deeply symbolic way: by planting more than 2,000 native trees, such as molly, peppers, and diucas, with the goal of capturing an additional 78 tons of CO2 emissions per year and providing a new green lung for Santiago.
This event saw diverse and numerous attendees, from young children to the elderly, who actively participated not only in planting trees but also in cultivating a legacy of environmental care. Donoso recalls a touching moment during the tree planting event: “A little girl told her mother, ‘I will never forget this day.’ This shows us that we are not just planting trees. We are planting seeds in the hearts of people.”
Participants of the event begin to plant the first trees. The collaboration here reflects the call to action advocated by the Laudato Si’ Action Platform, encouraging people to unite in ecological and social stewardship.
Ecological Vision and Mission
This ecological vision complements the grand mission of the Beata Laura Vicuña Foundation, inspired by the life of Beata Laura Vicuña. “We want to be a change for the planet here in Chile,” states Executive Director Sister Marianela Sánchez, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental and social healing.
Collaboration and Community Efforts
Achieving such goals requires collaboration across various sectors. Local government officials, businesses, and community members come together, embodying the spirit of goodwill essential for such initiatives. The commitment extends beyond tree planting. It includes efforts in recycling, composting, and even spiritual commitments like installing a 4-meter statue of the Virgin Mary and developing outdoor Stations of the Cross. These elements integrate ecological spirituality into their core mission. As Sister Sánchez says, “Each action brings us closer to our community and to the heart of our Church, which are the families.”
Advice for Similar Initiatives
So, what advice do they offer to others who wish to initiate similar changes? “Persistence, consistency, and teamwork are key,” advises Donoso. Sister Sánchez adds a thoughtful reflection: “Look at the planet, think about the legacy. We used to think of legacy as something material that we would pass on to our children. But today, it is for the planet. These small actions are for the children. We have no other choice.”