EVERGREEN MINISTRIES Harvest celebration puts focus on earth spirituality

Hayrides, nature trail walks and farm tours are part of the event.
By L. CROW
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
VILLA MARIA, Pa. -- The Sisters of the Humility of Mary will hold their 140th harvest celebration at Villa Maria Farm from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2.
The sisters' Land Management and EverGreen Ministries is in charge of the event.
"This event is geared toward families," says Tina Fanfer, EverGreen administrative assistant. "There are lots of games for the children and activities for all ages."
EverGreen is a ministry of the sisters that offers programs and workshops in earth spirituality, for people of all ages, cultures and religions. The director is Sister Barbara O'Donnell.
At noon, Land Management Director Frank Romeo will speak on History and the Harvest, insights and experiences he has gained, as he celebrates his 50th year at Villa Maria Farm.
Hayrides, nature trail walks and farm tours, including the barns and animals, are part of the planned activities.
At 12:30 p.m., homemade vegetable soup will be served, made from the organic vegetables grown on the farm. Fanfer adds, "The soup is made with beef broth, but those that prefer vegetarian may try the homemade pumpkin soup." Caramel apples and popcorn may also be purchased.
Herb display
Inside the Market Barn is the new herb display, created by Sister Stella Schmid, HM, and Sister Therese Pavilonis, HM. The Villa cultivates a wide variety of culinary, medicinal and ornamental herbs. Sister Therese has also designed greeting cards available for purchase. Organic vegetables available for purchase at the market include potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes, squash, garlic and pumpkins, plus mums, cornstalks and straw bales, and a variety of crafts. Jot the Clown will be creating balloon art.
At 5:30 p.m., pizza and beverages will be served, and the celebration ends with an Earth Songs Concert by Jan Novotka and Peg Mahoney. CDs, cassettes and songbooks are available for purchase.
"In the past we've had banjo music," says Fanfer. "Jan is a theology teacher, counselor and singer/songwriter, and Peg, a science teacher, outdoor educator and storyteller. They are well-known throughout the community for their earth spirituality-based folk music and include storytelling along with their singing."
XThe cost of attending the celebration is $5 per person, but no more than $20 per family. Registration is appreciated. Please call Fanfer at (724) 964-8920, ext. 3387.