By Urban Voices Staff Writer
KENNETT, MO — Exciting things are taking root at St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church in Kennett, Missouri. We’re on an incredible journey of transformation. What began as a plan to grow fresh produce on a 10-acre lot across the street has evolved into a homegrown project right on church grounds.
As the congregation shared in a recent announcement, “Instead of planting our organic fruits and vegetables on the 10-acre lot across the street, we’ve brought everything right back home to our church property!”
A special shoutout to Sister Rosemary Lemons This new chapter in the church’s outreach is being led by Sister Lemons, Director of the Young People’s Department and outreach ministry, along with help from her grandchildren. Their hands-on dedication is central to the garden’s success. as they’ve taken on the planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting with pride and purpose. I helped a little bit lol!
This season, we’re cultivating a variety, of crops, “purple hull peas, tender greens, heirloom green beans, cabbage, broccoli, squash, tomatoes, cucumbers, white and sweet potatoes, garlic, green onions, as well as green and banana peppers—and cantaloupe!”
With this effort, St. John AME is deepening its mission to nourish the community—both physically and spiritually—through the blessings of agriculture. As shared in the church’s own words: “Join us in celebrating this new chapter as we nurture our community through the blessings of agriculture!”
— Rev. Dinah Tatman, Your Servant Leader
