Self-Reliance
Faith and Farming: A Harvest of Hope
In the heartland of America, where the amber waves of grain stretch as far as the eye can see, there is a profound connection between faith and farming that embodies the true spirit of the American Dream. This connection is not limited to the pews on Sunday mornings; it is deeply woven into the daily lives of those who work the land. The calloused hands of farmers, the families who gather to pray over their crops, and the pastors who bless the harvest all testify to the powerful bond between faith and agriculture.
The Bible reminds us in James 2:26, “Faith without works is dead.” In the context of American farming, these works manifest in the diligent plowing, planting, and harvesting that sustain our nation. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it is essential to reflect on the pivotal role that faith and farming have played in shaping our country. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, farmers of faith have cultivated not only crops but also courage, resilience, and a sense of community.
Historically, the relationship between farmers and churches has been both symbolic and practical. In the early days of our nation, churches were often the first public institutions established in rural areas, serving as centers for spiritual nourishment and community support. Black churches, in particular, were pillars of strength, offering the Gospel and aiding families through farming initiatives during challenging times.
On my family’s farm in Georgia, we carry this legacy forward with pride. We engage in hydroponic farming, growing herbs, vegetables, and even butterflies, with prayer at the heart of every endeavor. Our harvest is shared with our church, not only to feed the body but also to educate and inspire.
Yet, our mission extends beyond our own fields. Across the nation, the collaboration between farmers and faith institutions can address pressing issues such as food waste. It is a travesty that over 30 percent of food in the United States goes uneaten while millions suffer from food insecurity. Much of this waste originates on farms, with surplus production and “imperfect” produce being discarded. However, what the world deems imperfect, God sees as usable.
This is where the partnership between farmers and faith leaders becomes crucial. By working together, they can redirect unsold produce to those in need, transforming potential waste into nourishment and hope. Imagine churches hosting community dinners with donated ingredients or youth ministries learning to prepare fresh, local meals. Faith institutions can also promote community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, fostering a deeper connection between people and their food sources.
Beyond the farm, faith institutions can collaborate with restaurants, caterers, and other establishments to recover non-perishable and unspoiled perishable foods, ensuring they reach those in need rather than ending up in landfills. Liability protections exist for those making good faith donations of food to nonprofit organizations like churches, making this endeavor both feasible and impactful.
These efforts do more than provide nutrition; they restore dignity and connection. They remind us of the sacred nature of every harvest and the importance of stewardship, generosity, and compassion—core biblical principles that guide our lives.
This vision champions the empowerment of families, the promotion of self-sufficiency, and the reignition of prosperity, especially in rural and underserved communities. Initiatives that unite farmers and churches align with this mission and offer the grassroots revival our country urgently needs.
When churches embrace and support agriculture, whether by reducing food waste or sharing a harvest, they reaffirm biblical truths. And when farmers partner with churches, they find renewed purpose in using their bounty to serve others.
As my uncle, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., once said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Faith matters. Farming matters. Together, they do not just grow crops; they grow hope.
Let us not grow weary in this endeavor. Let us sow with intention, water these partnerships with prayer, and reap a harvest of blessing and prosperity for our communities. Through faith and farming, we can truly live out the promise of the American Dream.
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In a powerful demonstration of faith and moral conviction, California Episcopal bishops have raised their voices in response to the recent federal immigration raids in Los Angeles. These raids, which began on June 6, have sparked significant unrest and concern among Christian communities, highlighting the need for a faith-driven approach to justice and compassion.
The bishops, representing dioceses across California, have issued an open letter addressing the impact of these raids on families and communities. Their message resonates deeply with those who uphold traditional values and the sanctity of family.
“We are concerned that military deployments will escalate the confrontations unnecessarily and worry that all of our regions in California may be subject to future deployments that heighten tensions rather than resolving them,” the bishops expressed. This sentiment underscores the importance of seeking peaceful solutions that reflect Christian teachings and respect for human dignity.
Bishop John Harvey Taylor, Episcopal Bishop of Los Angeles, shared his personal anguish on social media, revealing his “deep pain and anger” after 14 members of a single congregation were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This poignant testimony highlights the emotional toll on communities when loved ones are separated.
“People feel angry and threatened that the haven they sought in our communities is no longer safe,” the letter continued. “U.S. citizens and legal residents feel deep grief at losing beloved friends and family members. Children whose parents are deported face uncertain futures. In our churches, we strive to protect our members who are at risk.”
The bishops’ call to action is rooted in their Baptismal Covenant, urging the Episcopal community to “strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.” This powerful reminder of Christian duty aligns with the values of faith, family, and freedom that are cherished by many Americans.
The raids have also drawn attention from other Christian leaders, who have voiced their concerns over the aggressive nature of the operations. Pastor Alfredo Lopez recounted a troubling encounter near Downey Memorial Christian Church, where immigration officers surrounded a man. Despite repeated requests for identification, the agents refused to comply.
“When we said that we don’t want this on our property, one of the agents shouted back, ‘The whole country is their property,’” Lopez shared. Such confrontations underscore the need for respectful dialogue and adherence to the principles of liberty and justice.
The raids, described as employing “military-style” tactics, resulted in the arrest of 44 individuals for alleged immigration violations. This has led to protests and confrontations, with demonstrations escalating to the point of a downtown curfew being enforced.
In response to the unrest, President Trump took decisive action by federalizing California’s National Guard, deploying an additional 2,000 troops along with 700 U.S. Marines. While some critics have labeled this move as an unnecessary escalation, it reflects a commitment to maintaining order and protecting American communities.
As we navigate these complex issues, it is crucial to remember the foundational values that guide us—faith, family, and freedom. By upholding these principles, we can work towards a society that respects the dignity of every individual while ensuring the safety and security of our nation.
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In a striking case that underscores the importance of vigilance and integrity within our cherished religious institutions, a former bookkeeper in New Jersey has pled guilty to embezzling nearly $300,000 from two Roman Catholic parishes. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the need for strong moral values and accountability, especially within the sacred spaces where faith and community intersect.
Melissa Rivera, who served as a bookkeeper at Our Lady of the Mountain in Washington Township and Our Lady of Good Counsel in Pompton Plains, admitted to her crimes, which took place over a span of six years. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office revealed that Rivera stole $287,487 from Our Lady of the Mountain by writing herself a staggering 137 checks. Additionally, she misappropriated $5,242 from Our Lady of Good Counsel through three more checks.
The Diocese of Paterson played a crucial role in uncovering Rivera’s misconduct. In a statement, they explained how their Department of Finance detected “irregularities in the check-writing activity” during routine financial oversight. This diligence led to a deeper investigation, revealing a “suspected pattern of alleged embezzlement,” prompting immediate action and the termination of Rivera’s employment.
The Diocese’s proactive approach highlights the importance of maintaining robust financial controls to protect church resources. They have since implemented several measures to prevent future incidents, including a hotline managed by EthicsPoint. This initiative encourages transparency and accountability by allowing parishioners and others to report any concerns regarding financial misconduct.
Rivera’s sentencing, scheduled for July 11, will include a probation period with 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Center. She is also required to repay the full amount stolen, totaling $292,728, to the affected churches.
This case is a poignant reminder of the biblical principles of honesty and stewardship that should guide our actions. It is essential for communities to remain vigilant and uphold the values that form the foundation of our faith and freedoms. By fostering environments of trust and integrity, we can ensure that our religious institutions continue to be beacons of hope and moral guidance in an ever-changing world.
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In a world where integrity and accountability are increasingly under attack, the recent case of Melissa Rivera serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding Christian values and moral responsibility. Rivera, a former bookkeeper for two Roman Catholic churches in Morris County, New Jersey, has pled guilty to embezzling nearly $300,000 from her employers, Our Lady of the Mountain in Washington Township and Our Lady of Good Counsel in Pompton Plains.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office revealed that Rivera’s crimes took place over a six-year period, from May 2018 to May 2024. During this time, she managed to write herself a staggering 137 checks from Our Lady of the Mountain, amounting to $287,487. Additionally, she stole $5,242 from Our Lady of Good Counsel through three checks.
It is heartening to see the Diocese of Paterson taking decisive action to uncover and address this wrongdoing. The Diocese’s Department of Finance, through its diligent oversight, noticed “irregularities in the check-writing activity” and promptly initiated an investigation. This led to the immediate termination of Rivera’s employment and the involvement of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
The Diocese of Paterson has shown commendable leadership by identifying the financial control weaknesses that allowed such embezzlement to occur. Their proactive steps to prevent future incidents include the implementation of a hotline administered by an independent third-party company. This hotline empowers employees, volunteers, vendors, and parishioners to report any suspected financial or other misconduct, ensuring transparency and accountability within the church community.
Rivera’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11, and as part of her probation, she will spend 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Center. Furthermore, she is required to repay the full amount she embezzled, totaling $292,728. This case serves as a powerful reminder that justice, guided by Christian morality, will prevail.
In these challenging times, it is crucial for us to remain vigilant and committed to the values that have long defined our great nation: faith, family, and freedom. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us draw strength from our shared heritage and continue to uphold the principles that have made America a beacon of hope and righteousness.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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