Food, Land & Faith: Caring for the Earth & Each Other

At Milford First, we strive to love ALL of God’s creation, which means being good stewards of earth’s natural resources. Through our creation care ministry, we are:

  • Engaging with God and one another through shared service opportunities and gardening experiences

  • Encouraging our neighbors to develop a connection to the land by growing nutritious food at home and in community garden plots

  • Feeding individuals and families with free, nutritious produce grown within our community

  • Equipping our community with the resources they need to better care for the earth and live more sustainable lives

  • Engaging in dialogue with our members about the impact that human actions against the earth have had on marginalized populations and taking steps toward just, equitable solutions

Curious about creation care? To celebrate Earth Month, we’re considering the impact our congregation has on the earth in our community. Anyone wanting to do a little more is invited to an interest gathering for our new Green Team ministry on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in room 107 immediately following the WAVE community dinner. All are welcome! Contact John Henderson, director of digital & community engagement, to learn about how to get involved.

Community Seed Library

"Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food." (Genesis 1:29 NRSV)

Milford First’s seed library provides an accessible way for anyone within the Milford First church community – our neighbors, partners and YOU – to grow nutritious food at home or in a community garden plot. Milford First's seed library offers a variety of vegetable, fruit and flower seeds that have been donated by our community for our community!

  • Step 1: Select Some Seeds

    Seeds are organized in the seed library by the common plant type. Remember that the seed library is for everyone, so only take what you need.

    Step 2: Plant Your seeds

    Plant your seeds at home or in a community garden plot, and get ready to watch them grow!

    Step 3 : Donate Some Seeds

    You can donate seeds for the seed library at any time! Simply leave them in the basket on the seed library table. You can also save some seeds from your plants to ensure we have seeds each year. Label and dry your seeds, and return them to the seed library at the end of the season.

    Step 4: Share your progress

    We'd love to see your garden grow! Keep us in the loop by completing a plant progress form and placing it in the basket on the seed library table. You can also send photos of your plants to seedlibrary@milfordfirstumc.org so that we can share your success!

Community Gardening

In 2022, Milford First began a partnership with the Community Garden at Valley View by helping in the fields throughout growing season. Working in the garden allows you the opportunity to spend time outdoors with God and nature, and make a difference for our community. Much of the produce harvested from the garden is distributed to local food pantries and organizations feeding people in need.

Summer Service Days at the Garden
Join us as we serve God and each other by volunteering at the Valley View Community Garden! There are tasks for all ages and abilities. Families are welcome and encouraged to come work together. Come when you can, and leave when you need to!

The garden is located behind Pattison Elementary School in Milford. Park by the wooden fence and then turn left after entering the property. You may want to consider bringing the following items with you: gloves, water to drink, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a chair for resting and small garden tools (if you have them).

Sign up to Serve!
Summer Service Days for the 2024 growing season will be shared in Spring 2024.

Produce Distribution

In the future, we hope to receive weekly produce from Valley View’s Community Garden that will be distributed to our neighbors in need and local community partners, including Milford Miami Ministry. Food distributions will take place at Milford First United Methodist Church.

Here’s a look at some of the produce that will be available throughout the season:

Early May: oregano, sorrel
End of May/Early June: bok choi, lettuces, chard, kale, radish, carrots
Mid June: thyme, savory, lovage