Heavenly “Signs” at Cul2vate

God continues to inspire and surprise each of us. We have so enjoyed engaging in new ways and with new people we never anticipated God bringing us.

Cornelius, one of the Cul2vators, is a 21-year-old man who is deaf.  He has been lighting up our greenhouses and farm with this contagious smile for months now.  With the help of interpreters, Cornelius participates in all Cul2vate classes and is learning farm skills.  Although most people on the farm are not fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), it is a powerful lesson for all to understand that strong relationships can overcome many things – even a communication barrier.  Cornelius still loves to teach everyone around him the signs for different words and phrases commonly used while working.  He has even gifted some folks with their own “sign name”!  We invite you to celebrate his attitude and perseverance, and we are excited to share with you the massive Cornelius-smile-sized-step he has taken by leading our newest group volunteers.

Each June and July, the Brentwood Baptist Deaf Church hosts Camp Summer Sign, a camp uniquely designed for young deaf individuals to learn, share fellowship, serve, and grow. Cornelius spent his childhood summers attending this very camp.  This year, a group of camper are volunteering to be farmers each week.  The teenage deaf campers have been working hard in the fields weeding, planting, harvesting, and more.  Cornelius has been integral in instructing and leading these youngsters, and he has done a tremendous job getting them acclimated to the farm.  Our quiet leader has cheerfully imparted what he has learned to these students.  Join us in a praise of thanks for Cornelius, these memorable volunteers, and this wonderful partnership!