In the Garden

On All Saints Sunday, Pastor DH invited everyone to the annual service in the church’s memorial garden. The names of all those whose ashes are interred in the garden were read. If you are new to the church, here is some information.

The garden was established in 2011 by Diane Roach with memorial funds given in memory of her sister Janis. The garden’s design and plantings were donated by the CT Nurserymen’s Association. The Roach Family donated the first stone tablet and a bench.

Pastor Woody Eddins suggested the inscription at the head of the tablet: 

“I have called you by your name, you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1. 

In 2018, the second tablet was purchased and installed, with memorial funds given in memory of Richard Adams. It too has the inscription listed above. In the years that have followed, 39 of our church family are listed on the two stone tablets.

Two Memorial Books, one for each tablet, are located on the chapel table, under the large window, to the left of the sanctuary.  Family members have dedicated the pages of their loved ones by contributing photos, poems, and mementos.

The garden is maintained by a professional landscaper. Shortly after the garden was started and all the plantings were established, an unexpected snowstorm dumped a foot of snow on CT. As the snow melted, it slid off the tile roof, damaging two trees beyond saving. The plantings today have evolved, as the tree in the center shades most of the garden.

Next time you drive out of the church parking lot onto Plank Hill Road, look to your left. Tucked in the alcove behind the large dogwood tree is the garden. Or walk to the left of the main church entrance, and you will find it. Sit and have a peaceful moment. Walk around, look at the tablets, and recognize the names of those we remember. Look up at the beautiful stained glass windows and the two crosses designed by Vicente Garcia.

If you would like more information, pick up a brochure, or talk to Pastor DH, Mary Gridley, or Deb Reid.

Mary Gridley