For the beauty of the earth: why Kathie Peterson helps out

Kathie Peterson is the kind of person who writes up blurbs for the bulletin and passes along newspaper clippings. So, it came as no surprise that the 74-year-old retired computer systems analyst from Rosemount stepped up to help St. Thomas Becket in Eagan become a compost parish.

Q) What inspired you to make St. Thomas Becket a compost parish?

A) A series of happenstances got us there. A parishioner was told that the paper cups we used for coffee and juice were recyclable. He went to the pastor and said we need to stop treating them as trash, and the pastor asked two staff people to get a group together to see what could be done. I had recently taken a Master Recycler Composter program in Dakota County, so they asked me to join the group.

Our business administrator learned that a garbage hauler in Dakota County had just started a route to collect organics recycling from businesses. I met with a representative, who happened to mention that the county had a grant program for business and nonprofits adding new recycling options. “You ought to Google it and see if it’s still going on,” he said. I did — and it was. We received the maximum amount of $10,000!

Q) Funny how one off-hand comment can lead to something big! Were there hurdles in making it happen?

A) I was surprised at the number of people who aren’t concerned about taking care of the earth and, despite signage, aren’t interested in cooperating with the separation of organics, recyclables and waste. We must educate, educate, educate.

There are so many free resources. Dakota County has a newsletter on the environment. It also hosts “Fix-It Clinics” to reduce the amount of stuff thrown in the trash — and to build community.

Q) What were the next steps after receiving the grant?

A) We had to determine the number of compostable items we would use in six months. The county provided a list of types of containers that were available and ordered them for us. We wanted specialized containers for our commons area that had a nice appearance since they would be very visible.

Q) It’s said you can’t steward something if you don’t first know it and love it, that that’s the starting point. How have you gotten to know and love the earth?

A) I learned by osmosis from my parents. Living through the Great Depression, they learned not to be wasteful. We used to bring our plastic sandwich bags home from school to wash them and re-use them. My father worked as a soil conservationist. Growing up, we had a garden and nice yard.

Q) It sounds like you’re always learning: book clubs, Bible studies, JustFaith Ministries, Wisdom Ways, a recent course on racism. One opens a door to the next.

A) You start seeing some relationships in these things.

Q0 What has deepened your interest in Scripture?

A) Jack Jezreel (the JustFaith founder) is just awesome. He can make you love Scripture in 30 minutes! His basic premise is social justice. I’ve learned how Scripture lays out all the tenets of social justice that we Catholics have.

Q) You and your husband recently moved, making the switch to one-level living. Was it an opportunity to purge?

A) I had boxes of canceled checks — starting with college, my first checking account. I was floored that they were still there. Why was I hanging onto them? But we had this lovely, big closet and there was room! We parted with a garage full of stuff. Some things I realized I felt attached to at the time, but I no longer do. I sold the sterling silver from my mom. I did keep our wedding china.

Q) Over the years, how have you learned to lean into God’s graces?

A) I have an emphasis on God being a God of love.

Q) How does your life reflect the promise of Easter?

A) I try to live in a way in which I treat all people as equals as Jesus did.

Q) When it comes to aging, what helps you accept the process rather than fight it?

A) Remaining active physically and mentally. Accepting that it takes me longer to learn some things — especially dealing with electronics. Not being bothered by grey hair that is turning white. Enjoying being thought of as having wisdom due to life experience.

Q) Does gratitude factor in?

A) Gratitude is definitely a powerful way to embrace the aging process. In the last few years, it has become a larger part of my prayer life. I try to be more cognizant of thanking people for things they have done and adding comments about something specific. I’m very old school about paper.

Q) What prompted you to see gratitude in spiritual terms?

A) We had this eight-week retreat on Ignatian spirituality. In the evening, before you go to bed, you’re encouraged to think about your day and think about what you are thankful for.

Q) What’s on your list?

A) The sunshine and blue skies! A good book. Watching the Minnesota Orchestra (streamed online) from my living room. A group from church that meets every Friday morning on Zoom to discuss Scripture readings. We’re all at different stages. Everybody feels safe. I really get fed by that.