By Dan Russo
The Catholic Messenger
DODGEVILLE — By sharing seeds and knowledge of local planting techniques, Squanto helped the starving Pilgrims grow enough food to thrive in a new land. In a similar way, faith-filled farmers in the Diocese of Davenport are making use of their talents to assist people struggling to cultivate crops in other countries.
The unique effort is being conducted through Growing Hope Globally. The charity allows American farmers to raise and sell crops in the United States, then use the proceeds to support fellow farmers in need around the world. Some of the funds also benefit local families.
“For the last 23 years Catholic farmers from St. Mary Parish-Dodgeville, Divine Mercy Parish-Burlington/West Burlington, and members of other Christian denominations have gotten together to grow corn and soybeans on 24 acres of ground,” farmer Paul Beckman explained. “It started out as a Mediapolis project with 20 rented acres. … About 4 years ago we helped start another project with Park Avenue Christian Church.”
Beckman, a member of St. Mary Parish, is one of the leaders of the group. Over the years, 30-40 farmers have been involved. It only takes a few each year to make a difference. One plot of land used annually is about four blocks from Mediapolis High School; a second project is in the Burlington area.
“We netted about $16,000 between the two projects this year,” said Beckman. “We have donated over $200,000 in 23 years. We’re looking to get young farmers to give and help out.”
Each year pastors traditionally stop by during the harvest to offer prayers of Thanksgiving and participate in a lunch. In October, Fathers Marty Goetz, now retired, and Father Jacob Greiner, pastor of Divine Mercy and St. Mary parishes, did the honors. Father Goetz’s appearance was particularly special.
“Father Marty rode in the combine,” recalled Beckman. “He’s dying of cancer so we lifted him (into the cab)…”
Father Greiner grew up on a farm so the visit to the fields gave him a chance to get back to his roots.
“We’ve been praying for a bountiful harvest for all our farmers,” said the priest. “I just know they’re very passionate. I grew up in Iowa. I’m a farm kid. We were able to talk about the harvest. As a pastor, we always want to support our parishioners and their philanthropic work.”
Different farming operations are assigned to plant, spray, and harvest the acres, according to Beckman. Growing Hope Globally processes these funds, which are allocated to organizations in places such as South America and Asia.
“A lot of our funds are sent to (Catholic Relief Services),” said Beckman. “Funds are also used in our communities supporting food pantries, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Mediapolis and Morning Sun pantries. We also help with love baskets in our communities.”
Aside from the farmers themselves, many other businesses and individuals support the project.
“We have very giving people and organizations who contribute to our projects,” said Beckman. “Nutrien, River Valley, Valent and others have been very supportive with inputs to grow our crops. Leftover seed is picked up and planted, chemical companies donate, and fertilizer is cost shared. Grants are also sought after and used.”
Organizers are hoping the Growing Hope Globally initiative can expand across southeastern Iowa.
“I would encourage other farming communities to seek out land or patches that are hard to farm and start a ‘hope’ project,” said Beckman. “It’s amazing the returns that can be made from these projects.”
