“It’s a way of extending the meaning of the word of Christ into justice concerns related sustainable food and community, and really putting the work of the church in that context,” said Hill. “It’s prophetic, and it resonates deeply with my understanding of my faith.”

The church is working with another vendor at the farmer’s market in the hopes of being able to sell its short-season crop at his
longer-term stand. Selling at the market would not only help members achieve their goal of producing and selling a carbon-free tomato, it would also give the church another way to connect with the community, according to member Laura Gardner.

“The mission of our church is one of radical hospitality,” she said. “It’s one thing to make people feel welcome once they come into church. But we also want to go out into the community and give the church a human face.”

Next year, the group plans to apply for one of the city’s community garden grants and build a garden bed on the church property. For now, they simply hope to sell some tomatoes at the market as a means of raising money to help the church out of its current financial difficulties.  “We hope the seeds that started this project can ultimately serve as a source of resurrection for our church,” said Hill.