Landscape Maintenance and Beautification Ministry: Faithful Stewards of Our Parish Grounds

Lucy Bedwell loves to be outside and spend time in the garden. When she sees something out of order on the parish grounds, she takes care of it. So, this led to an idea — why not start a committee of other people who also care about our outdoor spaces? So, the Landscape Maintenance and Beautification Ministry was born.

“This committee is in charge of edging beds, weeding, planting flowers, spreading mulch, trimming shrubs, picking up trash, and anything to make our grounds inviting,” Lucy says.

Some parishioners live with a smaller yard and no garden, so this ministry serves as an outlet for them to enjoy gardening. It’s also a fantastic stewardship opportunity for people who don’t have much extra time. Even an hour of weeding can make a big difference.

While this ministry is in its infancy, Lucy looks forward to seeing it grow and develop. About 40 people showed interest as part of the Stewardship Renewal — there were even several young parishioners who signed up to be involved.

“This is perfect for those who like to be outside and garden,” Lucy says. “Even if you just have a few minutes, we will take you.”

Lucy has observed that many places around our community and nation look like no one cares — she doesn’t want that for St. Jude.

“I want people to drive by here and say, ‘Wow, people take care of this church, and they care,’” she says. “I want to give it that extra touch.”

A member of St. Jude for more than 40 years, Lucy has done everything from serving on the Parish Council to working with the St. Vincent de Paul Society. This ministry combines her love for working with people and gardening. When Lucy reflects on her time with this ministry, she remembers a quote by St. Augustine — “whatever you do, do it well, and you have praised God.”

As a visual person, Lucy knows this ministry is a good fit for her, and it will make a difference at St. Jude.

“Truth, beauty, and goodness — those are the hallmarks of the Christian ethos,” she says. “Everybody innately knows what is beautiful. When we have an outdoor space that is beautiful, that will inevitably lead people to God.”

Lucy also knows this ministry will help parishioners meet other parishioners, which is important to build community here at our parish.

“People can work alongside other people outside in nature,” she says. “What can be better than that?”

To get involved in the Landscape Maintenance and Beautification Ministry, contact Lucy Bedwell at lebedwell@sbcglobal.net or 317-491-3962.

Lucy Bedwell enjoys helping with landscaping tasks at St. Jude