Video Viewing Program focuses on sustainable development

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
March 6, 2008

The Campaign for Human Solidarity is offering a Video Viewing Program to parishes and local people throughout the Diocese of Sioux City.

The Campaign for Human Solidarity was launched in 2005 by Father Marvin Boes, director of the Diocesan Peace and Justice Action Commission. The campaign's educational component is intended to offer local people information, guidance and assistance in building living and sustainable communities in both rural and urban areas in the diocese.

"It gives us a sense that the whole area of economy and agriculture has a greater purpose and human element," said Wynn Touney, a Webster County member of the Peace and Justice Action Commission. "Father Boes has been so dedicated to give us that understanding. To take it not just to the economy or agriculture but it is a way of empowering the people in those areas to look to the greater good."

The Video Viewing Program consists of a 50-minute presentation on sustainable development by Dr. Fred Kirschenmann with ISU's Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture.

"He talks about the changes that will be necessary in agriculture, the changes in economic development and the changes in living our personal lives," said Marilyn Murphy of Catholic Charities and social concerns facilitator for the Peace and Justice Action Commission. "It has to do with sustainable agriculture, but we are all dependent on agriculture."

This video presentation is intended to increase the awareness of local people in regard to the need for sustainable development. It is also intended to increase hope in the possibility of making a community and its human enterprises sustainable in the face of the energy crisis, global climate change and increasing industrialization efforts in the local economy.

Murphy referred to Dr. Kirschenmann's talk by saying, "If change doesn't occur, if we don't face these challenges and if we don't change our way of looking, thinking, working and socializing, then we are going to be in trouble. You get this message and you think, 'We are all in this together.'"

Touney pointed out that seeing the video would help people "see what they are doing and try to enhance them coming together and working for the common good."

"I think it is something that people would be interested in looking at," said Murphy. "Whether they live in urban areas, smaller communities or live on the land, I think that he has something to say that is important for us to hear."

Father Boes sent out information to pastors and each pastor is deciding when to hold a gathering. The plan calls for local parishes reaching out to local people informing them of the Video Viewing sites and dates and encouraging people to attend. A viewing is planned for April in Carroll - see parish bulletins for information.

Contact Marilyn Murphy at Catholic Charities at (712) 252-4547, if interested in hosting the Video Viewing Program.