MONTFORT GREEN SADAN, CHEYYAR
GEM² – Green Earth Montfortian Movement
A Journey of Faith, Ecology, and Education
- Introduction
In June 2015, Pope Francis released his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, urgently calling the world to embrace integral ecology and take responsibility for our common home. Addressing the deepening ecological crisis and the dangers of consumerism, the encyclical became a worldwide invitation to conversion, stewardship, and environmental justice.
Responding wholeheartedly to this call, the Montfortian Community, during the General Chapter of 2018 and the following Province Chapter, emphasized the need to educate both students and staff in ecological awareness and sustainable living. Each Province drafted guidelines and envisioned a dedicated centre to promote ecological formation.
This vision gave birth to the Green Earth Montfortian Movement (GEM²).
2.Founding of GEM² – Green Earth Montfortian Movement
GEM² was established in 2017 at Montfort Sadan, Cheyyar, with the goal of nurturing a new generation of environmentally conscious students rooted in faith and responsibility. The center was founded with clear objectives:
- To provide nature-oriented and organic education
- To engage students in hands-on ecological and agricultural fieldwork
- To instill lifelong commitment to caring for Mother Earth
- To promote ecological spirituality rooted in Montfortian values
The initial groundwork was laid by Bro. Arockiya Samy and Bro. Sebastian Antony Samy (2017–2019), guided by the visionary leadership of the Provincial Bro. Mariannan.
- Transition and Institutional Growth
After the bifurcation of the Province, GEM² became part of the Bengaluru Province. In 2019, it was officially recognized as an independent Community, marking a significant milestone in its development.
- Leadership Timeline (2017–2025)
- 2017–2018 – Bro. Arockiya Samy
Laid the strong foundation and shaped early ecological initiatives.
- 2018–2019 – Bro. Sebastian Antony Samy
Continued development under the guidance of the Provincial Bro. Mariannan.
- 2019–2022 – Bro. Arul (First Director)
Provided visionary leadership, expanding programmes and strengthening the mission.
- 2022–2023 – Bro. V. U. Thomas
Introduced fencing, dairy, poultry, and organic agricultural practices.
- 2023–2025 – Bro. Sebastian Olickal
Focused on replanting teak and Vengai wood trees. Due to financial loss in dairy and poultry, the livestock was responsibly reduced.
- From 2025 onward – Bro. Arul
Resumed leadership with renewed commitment to the principles of Laudato Si’, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and St. Montfort.
4.Service During the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, local laborers faced unemployment, scarcity of food, and economic uncertainty. In this difficult time, the Community, with the support of the Provincial, initiated hive-farming and daily wage opportunities for local workers, providing them with income and dignity.
The local community remains deeply grateful for the compassionate response shown during those challenging days.
- Expanding Ecological Mission
Under successive leaders, GEM² developed into a vibrant center where:
- Environmental awareness meets practical action
- Faith-based values inspire ecological responsibility
- Students, teachers, and the local community collaborate to restore creation
Major initiatives include:
- Organic farming
- Forestry and reforestation projects
- Livestock management
- Soil and water conservation
- Ecological education for schools
- Sustainable agricultural experiments
- Awareness programmes on Laudato Si’ principles
These activities embody the Montfortian commitment to “Love God, Love Creation, and Serve Humanity.”
- A Living Mission
Today, GEM² stands as a powerful testimony to the Montfortian dedication to ecological education, sustainability, and service. The centre continues to:
- Educate students in ecological literacy
- Train teachers in environmental stewardship
- Support local communities with sustainable livelihood initiatives
- Promote spirituality that respects nature, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi
- Uphold the vision of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’
GEM² remains committed to nurturing a generation that protects the Earth with compassion, responsibility, and faith.