It is the season of harvest. This has been felt in such a special way as we harvest the vegetables in our new St. Helen Garden which is on the back side of Meaney Hall. This past year, Jean Maier came to me after attending the Called and Gifted Program. (The Called and Gifted Program helps us identify the gifts we have received from the Holy Spirit and determine how to best use them at any point in our lives.) Jean came to me and asked if she could build a garden. This was a significant endeavor. Under Jeans direction, the large vegetable beds were put together by Logan Shepard who made this his Eagle Scout project.
The foundation of the garden was done at the same time as our new garage so that the necessary water lines could be installed. The result is neat, organized and absolutely and carefully cared for garden. t has been dedicated to Lisa Neid who was a parishioner and employee of Saint Helen. After Lisas passing, we learned that she bequeathed some of her estate to Saint Helen which we used for the garden. Hence the garden is affectionally called Lisa’s Garden.
I should mention I have had limited involvement in this first summer/fall harvest. My own gardening experience is limited to remembering that during grammar school I was given a seed to grow corn. I planted the seed and it grew and then I transplanted it out in the sun on the side of my familys garage. And it quickly died. I soon learned that one corn seed must grow with others. (Now this is a lesson that demonstrates far more than just how to grow one stalk of corn.)
Over the past summer months, we have had many parishioners plant and harvest over 1029 pounds (that is more than half a ton) of tomatoes, zucchini, string beans, eggplant, peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, radishes and much more. All of the produce is then delivered to those in need including the St. Joe’s Food Pantry in Elizabeth, Holy Trinity Food Pantry and the Cranford Food Pantry. When you have a moment, stop by and see the work that has resulted in a sense of fulfillment and contentment for many. Thank you to everyone who has helped make this wonderful garden a reality for those we serve.
God Bless You All,
Msgr. Tom
