Holy Cross Giving Garden Celebrates Four Years of Faith, Fellowship, and Fresh Produce 
Yorktown, TX – April, 2025 — This spring marks the fourth year since the establishment of the Holy Cross Giving Garden in Yorktown—a ministry that continues to grow in both harvest and heart. What began as a simple mission to serve others through gardening has blossomed into a cherished tradition rooted in faith, community, and service.
 
Each year, the Giving Garden Ministry hosts a Spring Planting Day, inviting children from the parish Religious Education program to dig in and take part in nurturing God's creation. This year’s event took place on Sunday, April 6, with the joyful participation of approximately 38 students, teachers, and catechists, joined by 12 dedicated volunteers from the Giving Garden Ministry. Father Roger Hawes and Father Scott Hill were also present, lending their spiritual support and encouragement.
 
Although the morning brought chilly weather—temperatures in the low 50s with brisk 15 to 20 mile-an-hour winds—the hearts of all involved were warm and ready for the task. Undeterred, the group worked diligently to plant and water cucumbers, radishes, carrots, purple hull peas, cantaloupe, jalapeños, bell peppers, swiss chard, asparagus (long) beans, zucchini, and yellow squash.
 
Earlier in the season, when the threat of frost had passed, Giving Garden volunteers had already prepared the beds and planted tomatoes, radishes, long beans, jalapeños, bell peppers, and zucchini. Staging the planting over several weeks helps to extend the growing season, allowing for a more continuous harvest that benefits more members of the community.
 
Once the hard work in the garden was complete, everyone gathered in the parish activity center to warm up and enjoy a well-earned lunch of hot dogs or Frito pie, topped off with frozen pops for dessert—a sweet ending to a day filled with purpose.
 
The Giving Garden has become a cornerstone ministry at Holy Cross Catholic Church, made possible through the generosity of grants from Catholic Relief Services, and—most importantly—the ongoing commitment of volunteers who give freely of their time, talents, and resources. The parish is deeply grateful for the prayers and support that continue to nourish this mission.
 
Looking ahead, the ministry is excited to introduce a new Blessing Box located in the Holy Cross parking lot. The box, set to be completed this April, will feature three separate compartments: one for non-perishable food items, one for hygiene and baby products, and one screened area designed for fresh produce from the garden. The goal is simple: “Take what you need, leave what you can.”
 
All are welcome to visit the garden and witness firsthand the fruits of faith and service. For those interested in joining the Giving Garden Ministry or supporting its efforts, please contact the church office at 361-564-2893.