The First Congregational Church of Southampton welcomes Bishop Jim Curry and the violence prevention outreach program, Swords to Plowshares Northeast, to our town during the Spring Into Southampton weekend.  This nationally recognized forging demonstration invites participants to assist in the transformation of decommissioned gun barrels, from guns acquired through gun buy-backs, into gardening tools and jewelry. This hands-on transformation is truly a way to help address alternatives to gun violence in our communities. Suicides and accidental gun deaths, in addition to planned destruction are on the rise throughout every urban, suburban, and rural community across the US. The program is focused on reducing senseless firearm injuries and death.
 
The on-site Pallet-Pollinator Garden at the First Congregational Church of Southampton will also take shape that day. Our garden, as well as other community gardening groups, will be recipients of a transformed tool as a gift from this presentation. Live music is scheduled, as well as a cookout. The Southampton Police Department will also participate in the event, providing free gun locks to those who are interested. Suicide prevention information and behavioral health resources will be available for distribution.
 
This free event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine from 11:00 am to 3:00pm in the church parking area. 

More information about Swords To Plowshares can be found at s2pnortheast.org/ as well as in a recent article published in the Readers Digest March/April issue
https://www.rd.com/article/blacksmiths-turn-guns-into-garden-tools/