At Saint Martin’s Home, our beautifully landscaped gardens and walkways are maintained by Sister Marie Antoinette. She has been at St. Martin’s Home for three years and when asked what her job is, she replies, “gardener.”
From an early age, Sister Marie Antoinette had an interest in gardening. Her mother always had flowers and vegetables growing. Sister Marie Antoinette continues the love her mother instilled in her for gardening. When spending time at the Little Sisters home in Indianapolis, Sister worked with an English gentleman who volunteered on the grounds. Her interest in gardening was rekindled as she worked with him.
Sister’s favorite flowers are Cosmos and Columbine. She feels that talking to the plants, “all of God’s creations,” keeps her united with God. When the Cosmos towered over her height of 5-feet last year, Sister asked the plants, “Wow, what happened to you?” When the rain pours, she thanks the Lord for the rain, but asks that it may come more lightly. Her prayers are most often answered. She takes great pleasure in bringing joy to our Residents with her glorious, colorful gardens.
Her gardening tip for those looking for their “green thumb,” is “talk to the plants; give them love.” She feels the plants react and respond to her. The beauty of her skills is a testament to Sister’s love of her role as “gardener.”
Volunteers (with or without a “green thumb”) are welcome to help our garden grow! Please contact volbaltimore@littlesistersofthepoor.org.
HOW DOES OUR GARDEN GROW?