What began 17 years ago as a creative way to support both Native American growers and local families in need has grown into one of Bourne’s most beloved fall traditions. The 2025 Bourne Pumpkin Patch, hosted on the grounds of Bourne United Methodist Church, raised a total of $36,446 this year – with every dollar going directly to mission.
This year’s sales totaled $19,222.80 for the Navajo Nation, covering the cost of the 2,200 pumpkins delivered from New Mexico on September 28. In addition, the Patch raised $17,223.20 for The Bourne Food Pantry. None of the proceeds stay with the church; 100 percent of sales are paid out to the Navajo growers and the local pantry. The Pumpkin Patch is a partnership with Navajo farmers, who grow and supply the pumpkins, and the Bourne congregation, which provides the location, staffing, and community outreach. For many customers, knowing the story behind the pumpkins is just as important as picking the perfect one for their porch.
“This was our 17th year of the Pumpkin Patch, and it’s been amazing to see how it has grown – not only in what we are able to raise for the Bourne Food Pantry, but also in our community involvement,” said Susan Goux, this year’s organizer. “It really has become a ministry of connection.”
Ministry Attracts Volunteers of All Ages
That sense of connection was evident in the 74 volunteers, ranging in age from 2 to 89, who turned out to set up, sell, and break down the Patch. They came from Bourne UMC, Cataumet UMC, Swift UMC, and West Falmouth UMC, as well as more than 20 cadets from Massachusetts Maritime Academy, who are known for making quick work of unloading the 18-wheeler when the pumpkins roll in. A number of local high school students also served, and several volunteers were not affiliated with any church at all, but belong to a community group that uses the church building and wanted to give back.
Goux noted that community support went far beyond pumpkin purchases. “$4,408 of the money given to the Food Pantry were donations,” she said.
For Bourne UMC, the Pumpkin Patch is more than a seasonal event – it reflects a core part of the church’s mission. Native American ministries are integral to the United Methodist Church, and this annual fundraiser allows the congregation to support the Navajo Nation economically while also addressing hunger close to home. Each pumpkin becomes a tangible symbol of partnership grown in New Mexico, sold in Massachusetts, and transformed into meals and hope for neighbors.
Longtime parishioner John White helped organize the very first Pumpkin Patch back in 2008 and remains a key leader today.
In the meantime, organizers say they are simply grateful – for the volunteers who give their time and muscle, for the churches and groups that come together across denominational lines, for the Navajo farmers who share the fruits of their labor, and for every person who chose to buy a pumpkin, drop a donation in the jar, or bring a child to play among the vines.
Your Generosity Helps Others
By supporting your local congregation’s outreach ministries, you impact lives of your surrounding communities and those around the world. No matter what part of the world we live in, your generosity can reach across oceans and help churches like Bourne United Methodist Church help those that are less fortunate.
excerpt from a story by Benjamin Musasizi, Communications, New England Conference
This story represents how United Methodist local churches through their Annual Conferences are living as Vital Congregations. The overarching purpose of The United Methodist Church is to "make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." A vital congregation is one that is effectively engaged in this mission. Together, we become a powerful force for healing, growth, and transformation—living out the Gospel in every corner of the globe.
