The First Congregational Church of Williamstown and Caretaker Farm are co-sponsoring a six-session Northwest Earth Institute discussion course entitled “Menu for the Future” on Wednesday nights April 30-June 4 at the Church.  Evenings will begin with a potluck meal at 6 pm followed by the class at 7 pm.

“This is the perfect follow up to the Milne Library’s ‘Williamstown Reads & Eats’ series where we read ‘Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life’ by Barbara Kingsolver – an account of a family's year eating local food and supporting sustainable agriculture,” explained Bridget Spann, one of the farmers at Caretaker Farm.  “And the timing is perfect too with the start of the farming season when everyone starts thinking about eating locally and where they can get their produce from.”

Given the array of food choices and advice, eating in modern industrial society can be wrought with confusion, contradictions and anxiety.  “Menu for the Future” considers the effects of modern industrial eating habits on culture, society and ecological systems, and explores emerging alternatives, highlighting sustainable growing practices and the benefits of small farms and urban food production.  Participants will learn how to make personal choices that will improve their own health and well-being as well as inspiration and practical advice in taking steps to create a more sustainable food supply.

Registration is required and there is a $18 fee to pay for the textbook.  Call (413-458-4273) or e-mail (fcc.willi@verizon.net ) the Church office to register and for further information.

The First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, of Williamstown, is a Just Peace and an Open and Affirming church, centrally located at 906 Main Street (Rt. 2) in Williamstown, Massachusetts.  The church is fully handicap accessible and parking is available in the church lot off of Chapin Hall Drive behind the church building.