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Service of Dedication Set for Montreat Memorial Garden
“It is with both joy and thanksgiving that we announce the long-awaited completion of the Nancy Holland Sibley Memorial Garden,” said George F. Barber, III, president of Montreat Conference Center. A public service of dedication will be held at the site just inside the Montreat gate, on Saturday, May 26, at 2:00 PM.
“The idea of a memorial garden in Montreat has been studied in the past,” said Jim Henderson, chairman of the project, “and now, at last, we’ve found the support we needed to make it happen.” He went on to say that, in addition to the generosity of financial supporters, a group of more than three dozen members of the Montreat community has volunteered time and labor in the construction of the garden.
The Memorial Garden features a columbarium wall with niches for the interment of ashes as well as an area set aside for scattering. “Even before construction was finished,” said Henderson, “people touring the garden were generous in their praise for the beauty and tranquility of the setting.” A graceful pathway winds through the handsome entrance, past the columbarium wall, and through mature forest, ancient boulders, and lush rhododendrons. Stone benches along the way offer places of quiet respite for visitors, and curving stone steps lead down to a peaceful meditation area on the banks of Flat Creek. “Approximately 80 people have already confirmed plans to have their ashes placed in the garden,” said Henderson. “The importance and timeliness of this project have been repeatedly validated.”
Barber agreed, adding: “This is the fulfillment of a dream. Through the witness of each life remembered here, both now and in the years to come, this place of meditation and prayer will be more deeply treasured.”
In the event of rain, the May 26 dedication service will be held at Montreat Conference Center’s Convocation Hall in Assembly Inn. For more information about the Montreat Memorial Garden, click on Montreat Memorial Garden, or call 828.669.2911, ext. 313.