Friends General Conference

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A Quaker Community in Medford, New Jersey

Will Our Food System Determine the Future Of Mankind?

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 “The future of our food system determines the future of mankind”

That statement is explored dramatically in the documentary, Sustainable, during a special showing on March 17, 4-7 p.m., at the Medford Friends (Quaker) Meeting, 14 Union St., in Medford.  The public is invited; admission is free (includes a sustainable meal).

 “Quakers, along with other faith groups, have long been committed to stewardship of the Earth and its resources,” explained Ruth Darlington, clerk of the Medford Meeting.   “Most faith communities adhere to a deep concern for the environment among their basic spiritual values.  In that effort, we are stronger together.”

Sustainable, examines the crisis facing America’s food system and the community leaders who are determined to fix it, according to Director Matt Wechsler of Hourglass Films.  Illinois farmer, Marty Travis, after farming for seven generations, sees the disastrous effect big agribusiness had on the land over time. Travis brings his land back to life and becomes a founder of the sustainable food movement in Chicago.

 The showing by Medford Quakers also features special guest speaker Adrian Hyde, executive director of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey (NOFA-NJ), himself a pioneering organic farmer in Hopewell, NJ.

 “The overriding issue,” Darlington said,  “is that we must find a way to feed the world without harming the planet and we must protect the most vulnerable among us at the same time."

The film’ could influence not only attitudes, but also action, she noted. In Burlington County, known for its extraordinary record in farmland preservation, local support has been a powerful force for change. Collaborations are already evolving. Last summer, Medford Quakers joined with the Pinelands Preservation Alliance (PPA) in presenting a well-attended climate change film festival. In a broader regional sense, Quaker Earth Care Witness, (https://www.quakerearthcare.org/) has worked to apply spirit-led responses to environmental problems.

The public is encouraged to attend the free March 17 showing. Because a meal is also offered, reservations are requested. Please email your response to info@medfordfriendsmeeting.org or phone and leave a message at 609-953-8914. Medford Quakers have worshipped on the 14 Union St. site since 1759. The present Meetinghouse was constructed in 1814.

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