READ the FAITH PERSPECTIVE article as a class/group.

DISCUSS: A throwaway culture is one where people use something only once or a few times and then toss it out. Think through your day or week, and how much of what you use is thrown out after only one use. Based on the Faith Perspective article, how do you think so much trash is accumulated? Why do you think people end up living in the dump?

RESEARCH: Where does your trash and recycling go? What happens to it when it gets there?

EXTENSION: Together, brainstorm ways that we can start reducing the amount of plastic we use. Have each person pick one idea they will start doing and write or draw their commitment on a card. Tape it on a wall and check back in a month to evaluate how things are going. 

IN A GROUP: Read NEIGHBOR FOCUS and What Does the Church Say.

DISCUSS: How do you think Alejandro felt when he said, “Poor fish?” How was he working to make changes in his environment and trying to ensure that this area will remain clean in the future? How do you think that we can change the “throwaway culture”? What are some of your biggest challenges to making these changes? Fr. Custer felt called to help clean up the plastic in the lake. What do you feel God is calling you to do?

EXTENSION: Create a campaign to advocate for changing the “throwaway culture.” Consider the following: Who are the people you want to reach? What is the message you want to share with them? What is the best way to reach them? How will you encourage others to join your campaign? 

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