Peace Garden – Providing Food and Health to those in Need

The harvest in the Peace Garden is coming to an early close this year because of the unusually warm weather in June and July. There are still some zucchini, tomatoes, cucumbers, winter squash, and brussels sprouts yet to be harvested, but they will mostly be done by early September. It’s been a bountiful harvest, enabled by frequently dragging the hose across the parking lot to water the plants during the drought in June and July.

Over 20 different vegetables were planted this spring. Starting with rhubarb in the middle of May,
produce has been delivered to IOCP at least twice a week, having an estimated value of $750.
Noteworthy this year has been the large quantity of lettuce, spinach and kale that was produced. And, for the first time this year, I was able to successfully grow sweet corn, harvesting over seven dozen ears. When learning that Lord of Life was not going to proceed with adopting Peace, I couldn’t help but think this could be the last Peace Garden. Started by Vern Miller over 40 years ago, the Peace Garden has been providing food for those in need in our community. I planted 25 strawberry plants this spring. Will we be able to enjoy their first crop next June? We shall see.

I see the Peace Garden as one small, but tangible sign that God continues to provide for his people. I pray that his plan for our congregation will be revealed to us as we explore our options in the coming
months.

Mike Onan