TEST Tidbits: A Lovely Day for a Garden Party

Last Sunday, May 22, a Ground Blessing Service was held for the “Gardens at Bethany Place” at Grace Cathedral in Topeka. The service was attended by representatives of the surrounding neighborhood, social justice activists, school leaders, donors, environmentalists, area church ministers and representatives of the old congregation of St. Simon’s, which had been on the edge of the Cathedral grounds.

Those present walked toward the east to dedicate the beginnings of an area of education about native grasses and other plants – a “Prairie Patch” in the city for all to enjoy. We turned to the south to dedicate the beginnings of the culinary garden that will provide fresh food, hope and healing to those in need.

Next, we walked in a westerly direction to stand on the spot where an outdoor chapel will be built that will honor the African American Episcopal Church, St. Simon’s, that once stood close by. An existing retaining wall provides a natural altar area. Images of past St. Simon’s members will be etched into a brass plaque. The building adjacent to this outdoor worship place will house memorabilia from the old church and will host social and racial justice gatherings from time to time.

The group moved toward the north to dedicate a spot that will become a quiet and lovely place for nurturing one’s spiritual life. At each spot we learned of the history of the place from the native peoples who first lived on this place, to an educational school for women, the African American church and the early use of the buildings to their contemporary use today. Anyone who wanted a scoop of blessed earth had a chance to take it home for their gardens.

We then gathered indoors to have refreshments and view a documentary called “Kiss the Ground.” The movie explained the difference between life-giving and sustaining soil, and dead and dusty dirt. Supporting agricultural practices that protect and nourish soil is important to sustaining our green and productive earth. The Gardens at Bethany Place are indeed a visible sign of the Creation Care vision of our bishop in the Diocese of Kansas.

Earth Steward Action: Take some small steps in composting to enrich the soil in your gardens.

Source: Being present for the Ground Blessing and the program of prayers, scripture readings and reflections put together by the Missioner for Creation Care, the Rev. Jenn Allen.