Fields Of Life- Potato Project 2019
Having successfully carried out a similar project five years ago, members of Carland Presbyterian Church in County Tyrone decided in the spring that they would undertake a “potato project for a second time. This would involve the growing of three acres of potatoes on manse ground owned by the church. As before, the proceeds raised would go to Fields of Life, a charity that, among other things, provides clean drinking water through the provision of bore wells throughout East Africa.
The first phase of the project involved the ploughing of the field. This was undertaken by church members and friends on 13 April and involved the use of a vast array of vintage and classic tractors and ploughs. Drivers were young and old, male and female, experienced and not so experienced! The job was well executed and in record time. The drivers’ efforts were rewarded with a hearty supply of hot soup and rolls, which were also enjoyed by those who had come to spectate and support the effort.
One week later, as the ground dried out, the field was cultivated and drilled in preparation for the seed potatoes. These were planted using three vintage tractors and potato-droppers that were manned by members of the congregation. Everyone, old and young, got a turn at ‘dropping spuds'. Lunch and good craic were enjoyed by all. Angus Wilson from Fields of Life addressed everyone present, telling them how vital the proceeds would be in bringing about a positive change for those who live in rural communities in East Africa.
This project has been about much more than raising money for a very worthwhile cause. It has given our congregation the opportunity, along with other local people, to come together as a community. There has been a oneness of spirit to help those less fortunate than ourselves, as well as building friendships as we have spent time together. As a congregation, we wanted this project to be Christcentred, following his command to love our neighbour.
On the day the potato field was ploughed, George Conn from Faith Mission presented the story of Cyrus McCormick, a pioneering agricultural engineer. Mr Conn told those gathered that Cyrus, who invented the McCormick reaper, gave his life to Christ as a young man and lived out his faith through his work. Those in the field that day were encouraged to do likewise. Mr Conn's message was well received, and he was invited to return for the potato gathering day.
At the time of writing, the crop is maturing well, and it is anticipated that
the potatoes will be gathered in late September/early October. As before, vintage tractors and potato-diggers will be called upon, along with a willing army of volunteers with buckets at the ready, to gather the crop. In the run-up to harvest day, the congregation are praying for dry weather, which will make life easier for all involved. Again, it is anticipated that this will be another great community day for everyone, working side-by-side to bring the potato project to fruition.
It is envisaged, as before, to sell the produce to Wilson's Country Potatoes, where the potatoes will be processed, packaged and distributed for retail. Our congregation could not have undertaken this project without the support of many local companies and individuals. Thanks are due to Angus Wilson, Stuart Meredith and all the team at Wilson's Country Potatoes for suppling seed, monitoring the progress of the crop and marketing the produce after it has been harvested, God-willing. The congregation is also indebted to Clarendon Agricare, Portadown, for supplying agricultural chemicals throughout the growing season, and Gortavoy Feeds and Farm Supplies, for providing the fertiliser needed to grow the crop.
Thanks are also due to local potato producer Robin Watters and family for their practical advice, support and encouragement throughout the project. The congregation are particularly grateful to church member Ashley Morrow, who faithfully sprayed the potatoes on a weekly basis throughout the growing season.
Without God's help, such a project would not be possible, as he is the one who brings the increase. As a congregation, we are grateful to him, and we appreciate everyone who has contributed in any way to make this project a success.
The project has focused the congregation's mind on the many provisions that our loving God has blessed us with. We appreciate the fertile land and harvest that it produces. We are thankful for sunshine, rain and for the growth that only God can provide, and for the God-given health and strength to do a day's work, alongside our friends and family.
We thank God for the opportunity to share the good news of the gospel with our community, praying that he will be glorified through all that's been achieved with his help.
These words of Jesus seem to encapsulate what our potato project has been all about: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbour as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).a
