The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary Tree Stewards and Franciscan Youth Group planted a River Birch Tree with a blessing ceremony to commemorate National Arbor Day. The tree was donated by the RI Tree Council, thanks to Arbor Day Sponsors, the Mihailides Family Trust, RI Federation of Garden Clubs, RIDEM-Division of Forest Environment, USDA-Forest Service and the Rhode Island Tree Council.

Blessing of the Tree Sr, Nzenzili Mboma, fmm led the prayer service joined by Franciscan Youth Group, FMM Sisters and Tree Stewards. Creator of life and Sustainer of seed and soil of tree and flower, you have created this world and all that lives in it. We come to You in this prayer of dedication and blessing, for you are the giver of life, the Sustainer of all that lives. Lord and Holy Creator of Trees and Forests come and place Your blessing of life upon this River Birch tree that we are planting today.

Preparing the tree for Planting Tree Stewards, Sharon Falco, Yvette Hubert, fmm, Steve Higgins and Rosemarie Higgins, fmm prepare the tree for planting.

	Planting The tree is set in place and planting continues. L- R: Philo Yapp, fmm, Yvette Hubert, fmm and Sharon Falco begin shoveling soil around the tree taking care to keep the tree collar visible.
Finishing touches Mulch is put in a donut shape around the tree. David assists Rosemarie, fmm while others observe this step.
	Blessing Steve sprinkles Holy Water on the newly planted tree. The Franciscan Youth group led the participants in song and prayer.

Franciscan Youth group After the tree planting and Blessing ceremony, Franciscan Youth gather to admire their work of caring for creation. The planting of this tree continues the implementation of a Remembrance Tree Project of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary at Fruit Hill. This project was initiated to replace numerous trees on their land. It is fitting that they carry out such a project because, as Franciscans, they are committed to the care of creation and the environment.

Trees I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth's sweet flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain. Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree. -- Joyce Kilmer

Franciscan Missionaries of Mary have sought the help of others in drawing up a plan to replant beautiful varieties of trees on the property receiving expert advice and help from the Rhode Island Tree Council, volunteer Tree Stewards, and the RI DEM –Division of Forest with an America the Beautiful Grant. Neighbors, friends and relatives have assured the continuation of this worthwhile project by giving a stipulated donation for a tree and for a memorial plaque. It is a magnificent way to remember a loved one, living or deceased, a wedding anniversary, retirement or any other important occasion. The next planting of a variety of trees will be done this spring 0f 2007. For more information please contact Sr. Rosemarie Higgins, fmm at 353-6381.