The Adopt-a-Spot Ministry: Keeping Our Parish Grounds Beautiful and Inviting

One thing is for sure — we have a lot of beautiful outside space here at St. Benedict Cathedral. Just take a walk around the grounds, and you will see many beautiful areas with shrubs and flowers. Importantly, it’s all maintained by volunteers from St. Benedict Cathedral, none of whom are looking for any recognition for their work.

Dennis Lamey and Gene Schmidt coordinate the Adopt-a-Spot Ministry. Volunteers have chosen one of 15 spots that they maintain. Some volunteers work together or even as a family on their spot. The spots are all over, from the Parish Center and the Rectory to the St. Benedict Cathedral School and around the cathedral.

Volunteers are responsible for keeping the area looking nice with mulch, flowers, and plants. Some even maintain their site through the winter. This ministry is a way for those who love landscaping and gardening to use their gifts at the cathedral.

“This is a fulfilling ministry to be part of,” Dennis says. “You can actually see the direct results of your work.”

Dennis and Gene love that people can do their work on their schedules. That’s a convenient option for those who are busy. For instance, Gene is an adult server and will often do his work after he serves at morning Mass. This ministry is perfect for those who work full time but want to help.

Spots aren’t published anywhere, so volunteers do this work quietly without fanfare or recognition. That makes this ministry even more beautiful.

“We do get some nice comments from people,” Gene says. “We try to pass that along to the volunteers and let them know their efforts are appreciated.”

The Adopt-a-Spot Ministry started when Chris Matzen had to step down from working on landscaping. Kelley Knies, the parish administrative assistant, called to see if Dennis and Gene would like to take over. The two men walked around with a map and divided up the grounds. Eventually, they would like to add more spots managed by more volunteers. The group doesn’t meet, but Dennis and Gene hope to add an appreciation event in the future.

“This is a good ministry for those who don’t want to take a lot of credit but do something in the background that is still important,” Dennis says. “You can be with nature and be closer to God.”

Both Dennis and Gene enjoy yard work. As neighbors, they can keep tabs on each other and their yards. Dennis grew up attending the cathedral and even helped with some landscaping as a young man. He’s also a Pastoral Council member, an usher, and an adult server. Before the pandemic, he visited the sick in area hospitals and care facilities.

The Adopt-a-Spot Ministry also saves money for the cathedral because the landscaping doesn’t need to be hired out.

“It’s important to share your talents,” Gene says. “This gives the person a good feeling when you are helping out.”

If you would like to learn more about the Adopt-a-Spot Ministry, or to discuss covering a spot, please call Dennis Lamey at 812-204-7704 or Gene Schmidt at 812-459-5685.

(From left) Gene Schmidt and Dennis Lamey coordinate the Adopt-a-Spot Ministry.

This ministry is a way for those who love landscaping and gardening to use their gifts at the cathedral.

Just take a walk around the grounds, and you will see many beautiful areas with shrubs and flowers. Importantly, it’s all maintained by volunteers from St. Benedict Cathedral.