In the fall of 2006 a group of young people from the Edgecomb Congregational Church attended a work camp at Overlook Farm, a Heifer International educational center in Rutland Massachusetts.

They had been introduced to the program of Heifer International, a program that started after the Second World War, to rebuild stocks of cattle and other animals decimated by the war.

They want to raise enough money to purchase an "Ark." An ark is a large number of animals to be given to people throughout the world who will extend the gift by giving the first offspring of the animals to other people who will, in turn, pass on the gift by giving the first offspring of the second generation of animals. The gift continues to give. It was a great idea but how would five high school age young people raise the $5,000 needed for the "Ark?"

They would contact other churches in the area and they would make and sell soup. The "Soup Group" was born. Under the leadership of Debbie Boucher of the Edgecomb Congregational Church, young people and supportive adults from The Sheepscot Community Church, The Midcoast-Meeting of Friends, The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Edgecomb and the Edgecomb Congregational Church came together monthly to make up take out Sunday suppers consisting of home made soups, breads and delicious desserts.

Gallons of soup, chili, chowder and stew have been made and sold. Bushels of bread, cookies and cake have been made and consumed.

The "Soup Group treasury stands at $4,352. The final take out offering will take place on Sunday, May 18. The goal is $648.

The final offering will be back by popular demand, hamburg or turkey stoup (stoup is a hearty stew like soup). In addition there will be a serving of porridge bread and pumpkin cake.

The cost is $6 per serving. A family portion, enough for a family of four is $20. Additional servings for the family portions are $4.

To reserve a take out supper call Debbie Boucher at 882-8402 or call the Edgecomb Congregational Church at 882-4060 and leave a message. You reservation will be confirmed. You can also e-mail your order to ECC@gwi.net . Please place your order by Tuesday, May 12. Orders may be picked up at the church between 4:30 and 5 p.m. on May 18th.

Give the cook a night off and help put "The Soup Group" over the top.