In the summer of 2011, discussion of a church sponsored community garden began when the interns expressed a desire to have a multi- purpose outdoor classroom. They dreamed of a space that they could use to beautify the neighborhood, an environmentally friendly space to engage the city youth, and a space where they could teach young people how to be respectful stewards of God’s kingdom. A community garden seemed to be a perfect solution.

When the Intern Enrichment Ministry Team learned that the Durkee house was being removed, the team was granted Council permission for construction of the garden and funds were sought. First English member Annette Koester offered to design and assist with the garden, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans graciously granted First English $5,000 to be used for garden construction, and programming for neighborhood youth run through the garden. 

Construction of the first phase of the garden, the learning garden portion, took place last summer. Additional phases and programming will be developed as funds become available.

While programming at the garden is primarily youth focused, the interns are offering an intergenerational weekly working session so that all of our members may enjoy and feel welcome to participate in this neighborhood focused outreach ministry:

• Monday Morning Gardening: Join the interns and other garden lovers for the joy of working in the Seeds of Grace Learning Garden at the Downtown Site Monday mornings from 10-11 a.m. Help make this garden a beautiful place for learning and growing!

Click here to see an article in the June 2012 newsletter for more information on the garden.  If you are interested in helping in anyway, contact Derek Jones at 740-8867.

See the April 27, 2013 Post Crescent article on the garden here.