Dear Naz Farm,

I want to thank the staff members for all the lives they have touched. You are all truly role models and every one of you holds a special place in my heart. Before I came to Nazareth Farm I had a lot of turmoil going on in my life. When I first arrived to the Farm I did not think it would be possible to grow so much spirituality in one week. I have never felt so in touch with my spirituality and with God. During the drive home I kept thinking about what I really want to do to help change the world (this had been a constant battle for me). I often find myself overwhelmed by all the possibilities and things I could do, and I find myself wondering how can I make a difference when I am only one person? Then I started thinking more about what I learned on the Farm, and I thought of Fair Trade. I couldn’t believe I didn’t think of it sooner. Finally I have my answer I will buy/advocate for Fair Trade. I started to explain Fair Trade to my boyfriend’s father, and to my surprise I learned that they have family in Canada who are farmers. His father was very excited to learn about Fair Trade and now also plans on buying from them. Through God, the University of Detroit Mercy has led me to Naz Farm which opened my eyes to Fair Trade. When I got home from the farm I had a sudden burst of energy and I began to sing and dance. All the turmoil that was in my life had faded. I am happier then I have been in months. I hope to return to Naz farm and to bring my friends and family with me so they too can experience miracles.

God bless you Naz Farm.

Crissy Bieling
UDM March 6-12

Jim's Nazareth Farm Poem

They greet you with a hug
And show you a lot of love
They say, "Welcome Home.
You are not alone."

I didn't know what to expect
But this place it has had an effect
It gave me a glimpse of grace
And it helped me find my place.

Because of the work and chores
There are lots of snores
But as the week carries on
The moments are not completely gone
The memories will truly live on.

The friendships made are great
The staff are truly first rate
As well as the wonderful food on your plate
West Virginia is a mountainous state.

Throughout the week
You begin to find God in all you seek
Whether it be on the job
Or hanging out by the creek.

There is daily prayer
And an opportunity to share
You'll begin to see
Here is where you're meant to be.

The trip progresses on
Dark turns to dawn
Every morning begins with a loud song
You know the days can't go wrong.

I know this poem is rather drawn out
But I know that I had to say
That everyone here today
Has impacted me in some way.

Although we are going to part ways
Let's remember those awesome March days
That we walked together in stride
With God as our guide.

They said, "Welcome home.
You're not alone."
I can't believe all the love they've shown
And how much each of us has grown.