In an innovative blend of theology, ecology, and community, Princeton Theological Seminary is preparing to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its unique Farminary project. This four-day event in September is not just a milestone for the institution but a powerful statement about the future of faith, sustainability, and community-building in the modern world. The Farminary, a 21-acre working farm, has spent a decade cultivating not only fresh produce but also a new kind of leader—one who understands the profound connections between the earth, faith, and social justice.
Since its inception, the Farminary has challenged the traditional notion of theological education. Instead of confining learning to a classroom, it brings students to the land, integrating hands-on agricultural work with rigorous academic study. The project’s core mission is to train faith leaders who are fluent in the language of ecology, sustainability, and food justice. This approach is designed to counter the “24/7 culture of productivity” by instilling a different rhythm, one governed by the seasons and the sacred practice of Sabbath.
The 10th-anniversary celebration is set to be a comprehensive showcase of this mission, bringing together leading voices in theology, ecology, and food justice. The event promises a rich schedule of workshops, conversations, and worship services that reflect the Farminary’s core values. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with topics ranging from a Christian doctrine of creation to practical skills like composting and building downspout planters with native plants.
This unique initiative has not only transformed the educational experience for students but has also become a vital part of the broader community. The Farminary’s farm-to-table program supplies fresh produce to campus dining services and even offers a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, directly connecting the seminary with its neighbors. The project serves as a living laboratory for exploring how faith can inform and inspire a response to some of today’s most pressing issues, including climate change, racial justice, and food sovereignty. For more on how health and wellness initiatives like this are making an impact across the state, you can explore our dedicated section here: https://explorenewjersey.org/category/health-wellness/.
The Farminary’s 10-year journey is a testament to the power of a simple, yet radical, idea: that by getting our hands in the soil, we can cultivate not only a garden but also a deeper understanding of God, creation, and ourselves.
You can watch a brief overview of this event by viewing this Save the Date: The Farminary’s 10th Anniversary. This video provides an invitation to the four-day event celebrating the Farminary’s decade of impact. The Farminary’s 10th Anniversary – September 24–27, 2025.
