April 20, 2011 // Local

Blessing offered for new Earthworks location in Plymouth

Father Ed Reutz asks God’s blessing on the new quarters of Earthworks bakery and teaching site. Sister Sue Rogers holds the bowl of water for the ministrations.

PLYMOUTH — Father Ed Reutz of South Bend was a member of the first Earthworks board and has remained an enthusiastic supporter of the Earthworks mission as it has grown and evolved.

On Saturday, April 9, Father Reutz offered the ceremonial blessing of Earthworks’ new location, asking God’s blessing on the work and service that will be done in the bakery, classroom and the market.

Earthworks’ mission is a ministry sponsored by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ. Spearheaded by Sister Sue Rogers, Earthworks encourages people to be environmentally responsible.

A large crowd toured the premises at Earthworks’ new location at 701 E. Jefferson St., Plymouth, admiring the renovations done by volunteers, many of them from Ancilla College’s baseball program. Everything in the building is recycled with the exception of the linoleum.

Earthworks plans to hold classes in the new facility as early as the end of April.

Future plans include a baking and employment training program for young adults in partnership with Heart and Hands and the Jesse programs.

Some of the products offered are Earthworks’ artisan bread, homemade sweets, jams, jellies and granola. Local products such as brown eggs, raw honey, Indiana maple syrup and Fair Trade coffee and teas are available. Humanely raised meats, without steroids or antibiotics, Ancilla beef, local pork, lamb and chicken are also featured.

Sister Sue said, “We hope that this new and enlarged venture will be a source of education, love and pleasure.”

Market hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesday until 5:30 p.m.

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