Gnarly Wood With Porous Pockets

A week ago we had our annual blessing of the Earth Works gardens. On this rainy day, we gathered in the greenhouse at the end of the parking lot. Assembled were some of the regular participants at our Wed. prayer, some of the staff and many young volunteers. We read the story of creation declaring all things God made as good. We then shared garden stories. One of the men who is severely mentally ill spoke with a smile about having worked on the farm bailing hay and farming. Many had stories to tell about their gardens, and one spoke eloquently about the seed that God has planted in each of us that grows and produces fruit of its own kind. 

After blessing the plants inside and outside of the green house, we also blessed compost and had bags ready for people to take some home to spread on their gardens. We finished up with refreshments and fellowship. 

One feature was a huge log that Shane brought in to hold the Bible. It had a long history of its own speaking out of its gnarly wood and porous pockets. And, the best part was a tiny green tree rising up out of the stump. A perfect symbol.

Author: Br. Bob Malloy 
Capuchin Soup Kitchen Pastoral Director