From staff reports:

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Light of Christ Community Garden was held Sept. 18 at the corner of 21st Avenue SW and SW 344th Street in Federal Way.

Members from Light of Christ church attended the ceremony as well as members of the Federal Way Community Gardens Foundation, city workers and the general public. Click here to view a slideshow from the event (photos courtesy of Georgeanna Pulley).

Speakers at the ceremony were Teri Hickel, interim CEO of the Federal Way Chamber and board president of the FWCGF; Mike Stanley, executive director of FWCGF; Pastor Ted Werfelmann of Light of Christ Church; and Pastor Joe Bowman of Integrity Life Church.

Carol Stanley of FWCGF was the announcer. Chris Brown from Lloyd Enterprises brought in a backhoe to scoop some dirt for the groundbreaking.

The goal of the Light of Christ Community Garden is to cultivate the spirit of community, neighborhood and diversity by growing food collaboratively and sustainably. Organic gardening will be practiced and the harvest will be donated to the needy in the Federal Way community.

The garden will hold approximately 40 raised beds, eight of which will be built at a height to accommodate people with limited mobility. There will be an area of reflection with a fountain and framing a view of Mt. Rainer, along with an area for education.

To help at the garden by volunteering, or to donate in-kind services or money, contact Jim Cox at jim.e.cox@comcast.net or (253) 952-8339. Sponsorships of garden elements/beds and purchasing engraved bricks are available.