First Christian Church’s Pumpkin Patch Supports Global Water Missions

The First Christian Church (FCC) in Lufkin, Texas, is hosting its annual pumpkin patch, which is now in its third year of operation. This community initiative not only provides festive activities but also supports significant missions aimed at improving water access in Cuba and Uganda.

Rev. Jack Knox emphasized the hard work of volunteers like Jeff Goodier and Kim Guzman, who have played crucial roles in organizing the pumpkin patch. The church collaborates with farmers from the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico, who cultivate the pumpkins sold at the patch. A portion of the proceeds supports these farmers, while the majority funds FCC’s water missions.

October 9, 2023, marked the delivery of over 1,000 large pumpkins along with hundreds of smaller ones. This year, the church introduced “Pumpkin Palooza,” a family-friendly event featuring bounce houses, games, and a classic car show. This initiative not only enhances community engagement but also provides an opportunity for church members to showcase their commitment to outreach.

The church’s water mission focuses on addressing critical water issues in Cuba and Uganda. In Cuba, FCC partners with Los Pinos Nuevos to distribute water filters to impoverished residents who often depend on unsafe water sources. Church member Donna Anderson highlighted the urgency of this mission, noting that many local wells are contaminated. “A lot of their water wells are near sewers, so that water really isn’t safe to drink,” Anderson stated.

Visitors to the pumpkin patch can see a demonstration of the water filter in action, with opportunities to sponsor filters through nominal donations. Church member Carol Riggs shared a positive development where a doctor recommended the filters to his patients, leading them to the church and providing them with access to clean water.

In Uganda, FCC collaborates with Unreached Africa, aiming to improve water access through well construction. Jonathan Sewava, the organization’s CEO, visited Lufkin earlier this year to help raise funds for this critical initiative.

The pumpkin patch has become a vibrant gathering place for the community, with visitors enjoying free access to take pictures and explore the patch. Children can participate in a scavenger hunt, adding an element of fun to their visit. Rev. Knox noted that the favorable weather has contributed to increased attendance this year, with church members volunteering in shifts to ensure the event runs smoothly. “We have worked on making an atmosphere people want to come to,” Knox remarked.

The pumpkin patch is located on the church’s front lawn at 1300 S. First St., operating from 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays, 12:30 p.m. on Sundays, and 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, closing at 6:30 p.m. each evening. The final day of operation is set for Halloween, making it a perfect seasonal attraction.

Through this initiative, the First Christian Church not only fosters community spirit but also makes a meaningful impact on global water challenges, demonstrating the power of local efforts to drive change on an international scale.