In 2022 the Diocesan PWRDF/Alongside Working Group were inspired by a PWRDF partner visiting Ottawa who describing the tragic consequences of changing climate occurring in Uganda. This led to taking bold action to develop a reforesting project, not only for Uganda but for Ottawa as well. The program ended last fall, and the results are in. We have many people to thank for the outstanding success of planting almost 24,000 trees globally.
Acknowledging the mutual threat of climate change, the working group began by challenging local parishes to plant trees, while supporting tree planting in Uganda. This twinning relationship and the opportunity for local action caught the imagination of Anglicans here. This year alone, 410 native species trees were planted in the diocese and over 23,000 trees in Uganda.
Sourced from local tree nurseries, red maples, black spruce, sugar maples and basswood seedlings were planted in the diocese. Through a generous donation from Christ Church Cathedral, we were able to distribute trees while encouraging recipients to donate funds in support of St. Jude Family Projects, a PWRDF partner in Uganda. We are extremely grateful to all who made donations, and to our parish contacts who facilitated the distribution and to all who planted trees in their gardens and neighbourhoods.
St. Jude Family Projects in Uganda distributed a variety of native and fruit-bearing species. Among the native trees are Faidherbia albida (Musita/Nsabya), known for its ability to improve soil fertility and provide shade and fodder; Markhamia lutea (Musambya), valued for timber, medicinal uses, and shade; Maesopsis eminii (Musizi), a fast-growing tree used for timber and soil improvement; and Albizia coriaria (Musisa), another important nitrogen-fixing species. Additionally, recipients requested and received fruit trees such as jackfruit, mango, avocado, guava, papaya, and banana.
By partnering with PWRDF/Alongside Hope these native trees will count towards the Communion Forest, a Lambeth Conference global initiative from 2022 dedicated to “renewing the life of the earth across the Anglican Communion and beyond” by forest protection, tree growing and ecosystem restoration.
The program was highlighted at St Stephen’s Church and the Alongside/PWRDF Meet Our Partners event in November. Many thanks to St. Stephen’s for hosting, to their amazing cooking crew, Basic Kneads Bakery who donated the bread, and all who attended.
Walking alongside our partner in Uganda we have made a difference in our community and indeed the world. Thank you for inspiring hope for a sustainable future for all.
Saint John, Innisville — Deanery of the Southwest