St. Joseph's Congregation and St. Peter Claver in Punta Gorda, Belize
The twinning relationship between St. Joseph's Congregation in Wauwatosa, WI and St. Peter Claver in Punta Gorda, Belize was initially inspired after parishioners felt called to respond to a 2003 calling for more global partnership engagement. Struck by the calling to go forth from themselves and their comfort zones, parishioners of St. Joseph's Congregation sought a parish to become their twin.
After a devastating hurricane hit Belize, parishioners from St. Joseph's Congregation became aware of the need and took to action. Since this initial forming of the twinning relationship, many blessings have come about over the years. As these two parishes work together to find solutions to obstacles their communities may face, exciting initiatives continue to take place.
One of the initiatives recently shared with the Office for World Mission is the product, 'The Siter.' Please read the product description below.
The Siter (Subsurface Irrigation Terrarium)
If you want to grow all types of vegetables and herbs organically, the innovative Siter is for you. It uses subsurface irrigation and a terrarium concept. Add our biotechnology, organic nutrients to further increase growth and yields.
First, subsurface irrigation uses a five gallon recycled bucket with holes on the sides (to let in air) and hollow tubes in the soil (to pour water). With the sun’s energy plant food called glucose is made referred to as enhanced photosynthesis.
Second, the terrarium effect using a plastic bag collects condensation on the inside of the bag when temperatures change from night to morning. Droplets of water then fall on the leaves. Multiple bag heights from ULINE allow tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs to be grown.
The total results are substantially less water used, a double digit increase in produce over conventional raised garden beds, longer growing seasons, and protection from birds and animals, all without using fertilizers and pesticides. Add our microbic,molecular, organic nutrients to soil and vines for further substantial growth.
The system can be used by individuals in backyards, patios, terraces, or roof gardens. It’s also great for feeding the needy in the USA or abroad and/or fundraising because of it’s low cost to high value achieved.
Please contact us with your questions and comments.
Jim Schwai
jschwai@yahoo.com