Scott’s Chapel UMC Community Garden Continues to Grow in Service to the Community

May 2026 – With hands in the soil and hearts rooted in service, members and volunteers at Scott’s Chapel United Methodist Church recently gathered for the first day of planting in the church’s Community Garden. This marks the beginning of its fourth growing season serving the Shelbyville and Bedford County community in Tennessee.

What began as a simple act of planting has continued to blossom into a ministry of nourishment, connection, and care for neighbors throughout the area. Volunteers not only grow fresh produce, but also cultivate relationships and a spirit of generosity within the community.

This year’s planting season also brought exciting growth for the ministry. Thanks to the gift of new metal raised garden beds provided by the Tennessee Department of Health, the garden has expanded, allowing volunteers to grow an even wider variety of fresh vegetables and herbs for the community. The garden now includes three varieties of tomatoes, onions, cabbage, okra, cucumbers, peppers, and herbs.

The church’s Axiom Team remains deeply committed to the Outreach Community Garden Ministry. Under the leadership and guidance of Mrs. Barbara Draine, volunteers faithfully gather on Friday and Saturday mornings to tend the garden, ensuring it remains well-maintained and accessible for all who need it.

The ministry reflects the words found in Genesis 1:11-13:
“Then God said, ‘Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.’ And it was so… And God saw that it was good.”

As another season begins, Scott’s Chapel UMC continues to live out that vision through faithful stewardship, community outreach, and the simple but powerful act of growing food for others.