In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis recommends planting trees. Trees are the lungs of the earth. They “inhale” the carbon dioxide produced by burning fossil fuels and exhale oxygen. When trees are strategically placed, their shade cools us, our homes, and our communities. They reduce storm water runoff in cities and towns, they reduce soil erosion, moderate the immediate climate of cities and downtowns, provide windbreaks, and purify the air we breathe and the water we drink. Trees provide habitat for a myriad of creatures from lightning bugs and butterflies to squirrels. Consider selecting a native oak for your parish or home landscaping.