As we approach the end of another novel Bellwether summer, please find a brief update about the farm, its programming, and staff. Know that we continue to provide those things essential to the farm’s vocation as place of learning, restoration, reconciliation, and spiritual growth.

The seasons are changing at Bellwether Farm as summer 2021 slowly works its way into our lives. Days are longer and warmer. The forest is full again with all the trees leafed out, spending their days eating the sun – technically, photosynthesizing. Winter almost seems like a distant memory. Spring crops like lettuce, broccoli, and sugar snap peas are barely hanging on while summer crops like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are absolutely loving these hot temperatures.

As it has for all of us, this year has presented novel challenges for Bellwether Farm, as well as it has provided unexpected opportunities. The cancellation of summer camp and the closing of dining and retreat accommodations brought operations to a disappointing halt. Personnel changes and restructuring of responsibilities demanded creativity and flexibility on everyone’s part. And primary concern for the safety of visitors has required that we develop new ways of providing the hospitality and experiential formation that mark the farm’s ministry. The net result has been to use this period of uncertainty to explore new procedures and develop new protocols, and to employ in new ways the remarkable human and natural resources with which we are blessed.