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Memorial and Meditation Garden

A gift from a generous family enabled Good Shepherd to build a new Memorial and Meditation Garden.  Bishop Jones consecrated the Memorial and Meditation Garden on April 24, 2005.  The Garden is located on the south side of the Nave and is accessible either from the Nave, the library, or walking around the side of the church.  At the present time there are eight parishioners and family members interred in the Garden.  The Garden is a place for the final internment of parishioners and family members.  Other requests may be made to the Rector.  The Memorial Garden Committee provides perpetual care and the $550 fee includes the cost of a bronze plaque, which will list the name and dates of the birth and death of the internees.  The Rector provides pastoral direction and procedures for the Garden and coordinates all funeral services.  The Memorial Garden Committee, acting in an oversight capacity, under the supervision of the Vestry maintains the records of the placement of each person.  In addition, they ensure that a copy of the location of the remains is located in the Parish office and that the Garden's physical care and plants are properly maintained.  Flowers during the service are recommended but should be removed after the service.  In the lobby of the church are brochures that provide additional information concerning the Garden.  The cross which adorns the Memorial Garden was commissioned by Church of the Good Shepherd to Russell Jaqua, Nimba Forge, located in Washington State.  His explanation of the design is quite meaningful.  The 10 inch diameter circle represents the Crown of Christ, the steel rivets represents the Nails of the Cross, the red bronze metal is heavily textured or "beaten” representing the Blood of Christ and the bronze metal elements are very golden in color representing Christ's Victory and Kingship.

Church of the Good Shepherd ~ 9350 Braddock Road, Burke, Virginia 22015 ~ 703-323-5400 ~ Fax: 703-323-9303 ~ Email Church