In the Pottsville, Pennsylvania, region, our values call us to stand with people who are working to preserve their communities, protect the environment, and safeguard quality of life for future generations.
Recently, the Sisters of the Good Shepherd had the opportunity to do just that by lending our voice in support of residents of St. Clair who are opposing a possible landfill expansion.
Standing With the Community
The issue centered on 177 acres of land currently owned by a group of heirs from the Seitzinger family. Years ago, the family left a one percent ownership interest in the property to the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. The BRADS Landfill sought to acquire the land from heirs, with the expectation that the property would be used for future expansion.
Because not all heirs could be located, the petitioners pursued a legal action known as a quiet title proceeding. This process allows a court to resolve questions of ownership and clear title so that property can be sold.
A Voice in the Process
With limited resources to challenge the proposal, local residents relied on determination and persistence. Through research and outreach, one of the young men from the community discovered the sisters’ ownership interest in the property and contacted us.
Following conversations and an in-person meeting with the Region Leadership Team and Director of Region Administration Tom Casey, the team decided to stand with the residents and participate in the process. The team chose to send Sr. Gayle Lwanga to represent the U.S. | Toronto Region of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd in a court hearing in Schuylkill County.
In an interview with the Schuylkill County News, Sr. Gayle explained the principles behind that decision.
“It’s important because we not only care about people and the individual worth of people,” she said. “We also care about the Earth and any disturbance of the ecosystems. The entire universe is connected. It’s all connected. So that’s why we care because we care about people and we care about the Earth.”
Standing Up for Creation
On July 8, a court hearing was held regarding the proposed sale. Sr. Gayle attended on behalf of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd to formally oppose the action. Because a known heir with an ownership interest appeared and objected to the proceedings, the court was unable to grant the quiet title action as requested. Instead, the judge directed the petitioners to refile their case within 60 days if they wished to continue pursuing the matter.
Following the hearing, gratitude from the community was immediate and heartfelt. Approximately 50 residents of St. Clair gathered inside the courthouse. When the judge left the courtroom, the crowd stood and applauded the Sisters of the Good Shepherd for making a physical presence and, more importantly, for standing alongside them in their effort to protect their community.
As the situation continues to unfold, we remain committed to the values that guided our decision to participate. When opportunities arise to support people, honor creation, and advocate for the common good, we will continue to stand up for our values.
Learn more from a local newspaper, Coal Region Canary.
