Local Ministry

Happy Gardeners

Purpose

To provide fellowship for its members and live plants for various occasions

Scripture

"See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin" (Matthew 6:28).

Summer is an excellent time to plant and reap beautiful flowers, fruit, and vegetables.

Women who enjoy gardening either indoors or outside may use their talents as a ministry.

Members may visit shut-ins, nursing homes, people who are hospitalized, etc. Happy Gardeners can provide a valuable ministry while enjoying fun and fellowship.

Opportunities for Ministry

Growing New Plants

It usually helps to prune plants that become too large. Depending on the type of plants, many of the cuttings can be rooted either in water or potting soil.

Plant cuttings are sources for new plants without charge. As the cuttings root, they may be placed in pretty containers, ready to share. (Containers may be made by your Craft Ministry Group.)

Other containers are available from flower shops. Women who receive cut flowers and do not save the planters might share them with you.

Studying Plant Growth and Care

A few good books may provide information to help you learn more about plants and their care. (Check your local library.) In addition, you may want to invite someone from a flower shop to one of your meetings to share ideas.

Invite women who are interested in gardening to attend your meetings.

Providing Regular Care for Church Plants and Landscaping

If your church does not have a full-time custodian to care for church plants and landscaping, the Happy Gardeners Ministry Group members may volunteer for this responsibility. After approval of the pastor, a care system can be established, and responsibilities rotated among group members.

Your gardening may include watering plants and shrubs, weeding, pruning, and adding nutrients to the soil.

Caring for Plants for Shut-ins

Many shut-ins enjoy plants and flowers but are not physically able to care for them. Happy Gardeners can provide this service on a regular basis. Your presence while you are tending chores can be a blessing to shut-ins.

Take time to minister to them. Share the Scriptures and pray.

Sharing Ideas

Meet at the home of someone who has a herb garden and let them share ways to begin yours.

Exchange plant cuttings with others.

Study gardening suggestions in magazines, newspapers, etc.

Learn to grow orchids, which can provide a good source of income.

Arranging Flowers

Study flower arranging and provide cut flowers for hospitalized church members.

Dividing the Harvest

Share fresh vegetables and fruits with shut-ins or senior adults who live on fixed incomes. They will enjoy them and it will be a financial blessing to them.

Preserving What Remains

Freeze or can extra fruits and vegetables. These may be divided among the members, shared with needy families, or placed in the church freezer for later use.

Raising Money

If you have an abundance of plants, flowers, and vegetables, set up a table in a shopping center and sell them. Use the funds for a missions, local, or district project.

Meetings

Meet as often as once a week or only once a month. Vary your schedule to fit summer and winter seasons. You may want to use the summer for outside activities and the winter for houseplants, etc.

If there is a botanical garden in your area, plan a visit and have a picnic while you are there.

A Happy Gardener Ministry Group can be a blessing to the church and community. Use your imagination and creativity for a green-thumb ministry for Christ.