From Bishop Mark Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso
 
Bishop Seitz of our neighboring diocese has proposed a brilliant idea in the context of the current coronavirus pandemic: the planting of Corona Victory Gardens.
 
Families are encouraged to plant a small garden at their homes or in community garden areas during this time in which most group activities are cancelled and people are being confined to their homes or to more solitary activities in outdoor spaces. 
 
Here are some great advantages to such a community project:

1. One of the more difficult aspects of a situation like this is the sense of helplessness.   This garden is something positive toward which people can focus their energies.
2. Even though people would be working separately, it would unite the community across the various lines that separate us in a common action.
3. It would get people, families, out of the house and doing something rewarding at a time when many will have time on their hands.
4. It would be therapeutic at a time when everyone will be living with an added measure of stress.
5. It would help people to be prepared for some supply chain disruptions and save people from making frequent trips to the store for perishable vegetables.
6. Growing a garden can have a low impact on the environment if drip watering systems are employed.  Gardens are inexpensive to start and they have a positive effect on the environment by taking out CO2 and adding oxygen.
7. Some of the produce could be shared with others to provide valuable additions to the diets of people who have lost their jobs at this time.
8. It is hard to be out in nature and not draw closer to the One who creates and reveals himself in natural beauty. What a consolation to know that God is good and we are not alone!

 
Bishop Seitz encourages civil authorities to make available areas, perhaps in parks, where those who do not have spaces in their yards can have a plot. Perhaps Master Gardeners could step up and coordinate those spots. Civil authorities could also make available compost, mulch, and water. They could help coordinate collection and distribution of excess produce.
 
Many thanks to Bishop Mark J. Seitz for this creative and life-giving idea.