By: Sophia Prudencio
Every fall, families across Jacksonville make their way to the bright orange rows of pumpkins spread across the front lawn of Mandarin United Methodist Church. But beyond its festive charm, this pumpkin patch has grown into a community tradition rooted in service, generosity, and a mission that stretches beyond the patch.
For decades, the patch has been a seasonal gathering place where families come to snap photos, pick the perfect pumpkin, and enjoy the start of fall. But for the church volunteers who bring it to life and the families who attend year after year, the patch means much more. Students like Julia Lewis, one of several youth ministry volunteers, spend their afternoons after school hauling pumpkins, greeting and helping families search for the perfect porch piece. The efforts of Julia and others in her ministry raise money directly for the church’s youth program that supports outreach trips throughout the year.
“I really like volunteering because I get to spend time with my friends while also helping the church,” says Julia.
The tradition of volunteering spans over generations at Mandarin United Methodist. Lennie Tradd is a parent volunteer who was once a youth volunteer herself at the patch. She is reminded of her time at the patch while she volunteers alongside her kids today.
“I loved volunteering as a kid, and it’s something I wanted my kids to experience as well,” says Tradd.
She spends her free time at the patch with her kids helping them raise money for their ministry while also embracing the fall festivities. But the impact doesn’t just stay local.
Mandarin United Methodist partners with the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, buying their pumpkins directly from Navajo farmers. That means every pumpkin picked in Jacksonville helps uplift families more than 1,500 miles away.
Church leader, Paula Coker-Jones, says the patch has become a staple fall tradition for families year after year. As children run between the rows in search of their favorite pumpkin, the scene reflects the patch’s deeper impact, connection.
Whether folks are stopping by for a fall photo, supporting the youth ministry, or simply picking up a pumpkin for the front porch, volunteers agree the patch wouldn’t be what it is without the community that surrounds it. The warmth of the people is what keeps families coming back.
With each pumpkin purchased, you’re supporting local youth, strengthening traditions, and uplifting a Navajo community across the country-all while taking home a piece of Jacksonville’s fall spirit.