Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

In recent times, the Diocese of Tucson has been making significant strides towards incorporating solar power into its parishes as a means of environmental conservation and financial efficiency.

The initiative, spearheaded by Cathedral rector Father Alan Valencia, aims to not only improve the sustainability of the Diocese but also to set an example for others to follow. Father Alan emphasized the importance of this project, stating, “We are installing solar panels at the Cathedral because they are obviously good for our environment, cost-effective, energy efficient, and they will lower our utility costs. This allows us to be good stewards of creation, our parishioners, and our beautiful home, the Diocese of Tucson.”

Furthermore, the move towards solar power is seen as a collective effort towards a common goal. Father Alan highlighted the importance of unity in this endeavor, stating, “Our goal is to always work together for the good of everyone, eliminate the ‘me mentality,’ and foster the ‘we mentality.’ We are all in this together.”

John Shaheen, the Diocesan property manager, shed light on the financial aspects of installing solar panels in churches, noting the challenges faced by smaller parishes in meeting the necessary requirements for financial benefits. He explained the intricacies of financing for non-profit entities and the partnership needed with solar array installers to make the transition to solar power feasible.

The embrace of solar power is evident in several parishes within the Diocese of Tucson, with Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church being a pioneer in this endeavor. Other parishes such as St. John the Evangelist Catholic School have also followed suit, with solar panels covering various areas of their properties, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness.

Bishop Edward Weisenburger emphasized the importance of individual actions in contributing to a more sustainable future, stating, “There are so many things an individual can do... it takes, on some level, each of us being willing to make a change for the sake of all.”

As the Diocese of Tucson continues to embrace solar power, it sets an example for other communities to follow in the path of environmental stewardship and responsible energy consumption.