Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) from the Vernon Group Worship Service (GWS), Ecclesiastical District of British Columbia, participated in a backyard gardening activity on May 11, 2025.
The backyard of assistant GWS overseer Emil Mendez located at 4220 Foothill Rd, Salmon Arm, British Columbia, Canada, being ideal for gardening, served as the venue. Aimed for their benefit sometime soon, the brethren of the said GWS worked together to plant a variety of vegetables, which were cabbage, celery, eggplant, string beans, lettuce, and cucumber.
The participants were full of enthusiasm and joy as they took part in the activity, which was also in line with the Church’s advocacy for environmental care and community involvement. Aside from backyard owner Mendez taking care of the vegetable plants, the brethren said that they will allot time in checking and ensuring the growth of what they planted. Among them was Donabel Paligutan, a deaconess, who shared, “I’m truly grateful for today’s activity. It was a wonderful way to connect with others, learn practical gardening skills, and appreciate the value of growing our own food.”
Launched by the Christian Family Organizations (CFO), the activity paved the way not only to promote sustainable living and healthy eating but also to strengthen the camaraderie and bond among members.
Church officers ensured that participants had the necessary tools and guidance. “It’s inspiring to see how faith and caring for the Earth come together in something as simple as backyard gardening. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned and share it with others,” Paligutan added. The gardening activity stands as a testament to the unity and dedication of the brethren in Vernon GWS and their desire to contribute positively to their community.
On behalf of their GWS, Mendez expressed, “We thank the Church Administration for launching such a worthwhile activity. Together with the brethren, we happily shared each other’s simple ways on how to plant vegetables. Our bond with each other have been further strengthened.” — With reports from Rene Sumagaysay of INC News Section