Memorial Garden

For as long as anyone can remember at St. Matthews, the grove of trees surrounding the mountain laurel at the center of the church property has been identified as our Memorial Garden. It’s been the backdrop for countless photos and a site for prayer and contemplation. Over time, benches to sit on and a statue of St Francis were added.  Our church garden became an extension of the sanctuary as a place to encounter God (see document: Why have a church garden).

On Memorial Day weekend 2013, Bishop David Reed dedicated our Memorial Garden (signage on the church now says "Reflection Garden."  (Click here to see Video of dedication and/or here for Text of the dedication).  This garden is now a place where you can leave a lasting remembrance for generations that follow. You can choose to honor an individual or a family, make note of a special occasion, or express appreciation or gratitude, and at a very reasonable price. See How to contribute to the garden.

Please use the form linked here, Memorial Garden Pledge Form,   to make your choice of memorial and words to include on the paver. If a bench, please include as much information as possible but remember the engraver has the final word on constraints and some back and forth for what fits may be necessary.  Please turn the form into the church office, leave in a collection plate during a service, or scan and return by email to office@stmatts-uc.org.

Original concept drawing. 

The shapes used in the design have significant meaning, see:

St. Matthew's Memorial Garden Design Symbolism