Hey! Do you see how beautiful it is around the parish grounds? Well, God didn’t just plop all that beauty down here, although He certainly called upon the hands that do.
Story and photos by Bill Archer
Those hands are supplied by our parish ministry, Patrons of the Vine (patronsofthevine@stisidoreparish.org ). The group, led by head grape Julee Woodman, began two years ago. Julee had been recruited by Jim Leix, who had faithfully cared for the grounds for many years. They certainly needed work, and Julee quickly found that one person could not maintain the many landscaped areas. She put out the word that help was needed, and parishioners who also cared and were able stepped forward.
The “Patrons” consist of a core group of about fifteen people who meet on the first and third Saturdays of the month, working from 9:00 am to noon. They do whatever is needed – weeding, planting, mulching and watering, usually concentrating on one area at a time before moving on to the next. They come because they want the parish to look nice and their camaraderie makes the work pleasant, getting even the big jobs done in short order. The age range is early teens to many decades, and all have made new friends through their efforts.
Take a quick walk around the grounds and see the results. Even the islands in the parking lot have been cleaned and planted. You may also have noticed the yellow tape used to protect the yellow hostas that were planted in May. So please always use the stone-lined pathways and let the plants grow.
If you are interested in digging in the dirt with the rest of the group, check out the SERVE IN MINISTRY link on the parish website. Go to Buildings and Grounds, and then look for Patrons of the Vine. You can also call the Parish Office (630) 529-3045 and leave your contact information. Julee (patron-ofthe-vine@att.net.) will cheerfully get back to you.
