NEWS AND INSIGHTS

Cultivating Creation: Clemmons Moravian Church’s Pollinator Garden

 

At Clemmons Moravian Church, the spirit of community and the beauty of nature have come together in a remarkable way. Thanks to a generous grant from the Moravian Ministries Foundation in America, they created a flourishing pollinator garden that has brought joy and inspiration to the preschool children, parents, staff, and congregation.

In October 2023, a collaboration with Bashavia Gardens brought their dream garden to life. Native plants thoughtfully arranged by Bashavia’s expert horticulturist, Max Notke, transformed the church campus. Just a few weeks later, they held a heartfelt dedication service, where preschool and childcare children, staff, and the church gardening committee came together to celebrate this wonderful addition to our community. Now, the garden is thriving, a vibrant testament to the beauty of God’s creation.

The garden’s impact on the Clemmons Moravian community has been nothing short of magical. The preschool and childcare children delight in exploring the garden and discovering the delicate intricacies of nature. Margaret Harper, a cherished member of our church, beautifully expresses this sentiment: “The garden allows our children to witness the interconnectedness of God’s creation and gain knowledge of God through experiencing nature.”

The garden also serves as a serene retreat for Clemmons Moravian Preschool staff during breaks and a peaceful pathway for parents during drop-off and pick-up times. The two benches nestled within the garden offer a tranquil spot for anyone seeking quiet meditation and reflection.

The collaboration with Bashavia Gardens was a great success. Max Notke’s expertise in native plants and garden design has provided Clemmons Moravian with a sustainable and beautiful space. This will support birds, pollinators, and the entire community for years to come.

Reflecting on the grant’s utilization, Margaret Harper of Clemmons Moravian Church expressed deep gratitude for the MMFA’s support. She emphasized MMFA’s role in empowering congregations and groups to achieve diverse goals, from environmental stewardship to racial awareness and reconciliation. Inspired by this experience, she hopes to apply for future MMFA grants to further the church’s mission.

Your generous donations to the Environmental Stewardship Field of Interest Fund, managed by your Moravian Ministries Foundation in America, made this ministry of environmental stewardship possible. Clemmons Moravian Church warmly invites everyone to visit and witness the beauty and peace of their pollinator garden firsthand.