Maryland Eastern Shore Education Project, Maryland Catholic Conference

Archdiocese of Washington, Diocese of Wilmington, Archdiocese of Baltimore

The Maryland Catholic Conference, the Archdiocese of Washington’s Office of Social Development, the Diocese of Wilmington’s Office of Parish Social Ministry, and the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s Office of Communications co-sponsored an educational and organizing project.

The initial training session examined a range of issues from poultry farming and associated labor and environmental problems to pollution of the Chesapeake Bay and urban sprawl. The training included simulation exercises designed to engage participants in formulating public policy options.

The goals of the Maryland Eastern Shore Education Project include increasing the awareness of the Catholic community about the environment; encouraging dialogue among effected parties; and initiating community activities to support legislation to improve environmental protection in Maryland. Additional activities included hosting smaller leadership retreats of 20-30 church leaders and a series of statewide conferences.