Nebraska Synod ELCA

St. John’s United Lutheran Church in Alliance is expanding its community outreach ministry with the construction of a greenhouse.  Long-time member Russell Finch donated the greenhouse in honor of his wife Darlene.  Before we accepted his generous gift, we explored how much support there would be in the church and community and the response was positive and enthusiastic. The foundation was immediately dug and construction started.  But then Nebraska laughed its gleeful laugh and snow, more snow, and then lots of snow slowed progress. Since the greenhouse had not been enclosed at this point, the foundation filled with snow and when it warmed up, St. Johns had a swimming pool. Now that the weather is warming up, the pool has been drained and construction will recommence shortly. The first plantings are tentatively scheduled for September and sustainable crops will be cultivated providing food for the Community Table, which feeds 50 -100 people daily.  Orange, lemon, lime, and fig trees will also be planted; the fruit will be sold and proceeds will provide scholarships to St. John’s Preschool. We were also blessed to receive $10,000 from the Immanual Vision Foundation to complete this project. Find more about the project here.

Submitted by: Maurine Roller

St. John’s Lutheran Church Alliance, NE