SCOTCH PLAINS, N.J. — A group of teen boys from St. Bartholomew Church in Scotch Plains has turned part of the parish’s backyard into a vegetable garden aimed at feeding hungry local families.
The effort, led by members of The Sons of Thunder — the church’s ministry for boys in grades 8 through 12 — includes planting tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon, and other crops in a 24-by-36-foot plot. The harvested produce will be donated to the St. Bartholomew Food Pantry, which serves residents in need in the local community.
“I am so proud of these young men for committing themselves to a project that will help so many people in need,” said Father Matthew Gonzalez, who co-leads the group.
The teens are responsible for maintaining the garden throughout the summer, including watering, weeding, and planting additional seeds as needed. The initiative marks a hands-on service project for The Sons of Thunder, a ministry Father Gonzalez launched last summer to help young men explore vocations and faith-based service.
The group, which currently includes 10 members, meets monthly for prayer, sports, and faith discussions, as well as for regular service activities and seminary visits.
