The Hallmark of Stewardship reminds us that we as human beings and God’s creation, should appreciate and have an understanding of the essentials of our livelihood, which are the human community and the natural environment. This begins with farming and the harvesting of our crops, which is one of the most important elements required for the sustainability of all living creatures. Farmers possess one of the highest responsibilities, which should require utmost dignity and the belief in good stewardship. As stated in our Benedictine Hallmarks on Stewardship, “Benedictine monastics do not simply use up what has been given to them, nor do they aim at poverty. Instead they prize good stewardship, the wise and moderate use of material things for the good of all, both present and future.”
An example of challenges addressed in Farmworkers Justice is the need for medical attention for farm laborers. According to the National Agricultural Workers Survey, the agricultural farmer population is disproportionately poor and lacking in health care coverage and medical care. It is crucial for our farm laborers to remain healthy and strong in order to do the necessary work that they provide. Community partners and healthcare professionals have teamed up to provide education and free healthcare screenings to agricultural workers. Often times, education begins within the community. When one or just a few individuals within the group recognize an issue and spread awareness within the community, then all can come together to improve conditions for the betterment of all. This is how we gain awareness, which can potentially spread globally, through the help of others and the resources available to us. This is the Hallmark of Stewardship.
REFERENCES
Benedictine University, Center for Mission and Identity (2019). Benedictine Hallmarks
Retrieved June 9, 2019 http://www.ben.edu/center-for-mission-and-identity/resources/hallmarks.cfm
Farmworker Justice (2018). Barriers Encountered by Agricultural Workers Seeking Specialty Care and Potential Solutions
Retrieved June 9, 2019 farmworkerjustice.org
IDS 202 Stewardship_Benedictine Knowledge 