Reverend Phyllis Diamond
Reverend Phyllis Diamond serves as an intern, gaining experience in ministry through spiritual guidance, teaching, and service to the community. They are dedicated to growing in faith and developing their skills in Christian ministry while supporting the mission of the church.
The Garden of Grace
The Garden of Grace is a ministry of Wheatland Lutheran Church. What began as a small seminary class project has grown into over an acre of land dedicated to growing fresh produce for those in need.
What the Garden Grows
- Donates produce to 11 local food pantries
- In one growing season, yielded over 1,100 pounds of vegetables
- Includes squash, potatoes, corn, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, onions, and beets
Feeding Ministries
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wheatland Lutheran Church partnered with Feeding America Southwest Virginia to provide shelf-stable meals to children. Since May 2020, the church has served approximately 3,000 meals.
The church currently offers six days’ worth of meals so children can have at least one full meal every day.
“I think we would like to extinguish hunger one tomato at a time or one squash at a time.”
Community Engagement
Wheatland Lutheran Church is committed to involving the broader community in its mission. The Garden of Grace is increasingly open to the public as a hands-on project for local residents.
Tractor Treat
The church hosts an annual Tractor Treat event each fall. What started with just two tractors has grown to over seventeen, attracting hundreds of community members for food, hayrides, and fellowship.
What Neighbors Say
A local community member described Wheatland Lutheran Church as:
“A small congregation with an energetic pastor doing good things for the community.”
Vision for the Future
Wheatland Lutheran Church’s enthusiasm for outreach continues to grow. Under Pastor Chuck’s leadership, the church is exploring ways to plant fruit trees, raise chickens, and expand what it is already doing to serve the community.
Whether tending crops in the garden, officiating at community events, or leading worship, Pastor Chuck Miller remains committed to the simple yet profound calling he articulates for the church:
“We are living out the gospel … what Christ asked us to do. Literally, we are taking care of our neighbors. It’s a wonderful ministry to be a part of. We just want to be a mission and help God’s children.”
