Sun shines on healing garden celebration

Dozens of visitors, parishioners and volunteer joined together to celebrate a new gazebo being installed as the centrepiece of the Northampton Diocesan healing garden.

The gazebo, which offers visitors an even more comfortable spot to reflect, contemplate and remember loved ones, was officially blessed on Saturday (June 6).

Speaking at the event, Canon Christopher Perry, Episcopal Vicar, said: “It is wonderful to be able to come together and give thanks for the healing garden, especially with the construction of its newest addition, the gazebo.”

On a rainy Saturday, the weather held off while Brother John Mayhead, from Turvey Abbey in Bedfordshire, gave the blessing for the gazebo, surrounded by guests. The community at Turvey Abbey made hand-crafted doves – the symbol of the healing garden – to adorn the ceiling of the gazebo. This was in honour of artist Johan Barber, who was planning to create the doves before she sadly died.

After the blessing, the party then made their way to the adjoining St Thomas’ Centre, where they enjoyed music by members of the cathedral choir, pizza and refreshments, with arts and crafts available for the children.

Danielle Dixon, Safeguarding Coordinator for the diocese, said: “It was an amazing day, and we were thrilled to welcome so many from the community who braved the weather to mark this special day.

“Our healing garden is already a haven to many in Northampton and beyond and would encourage anyone in need of a space for peace, solace and contemplation to please make the most of this amazing space.”

The healing garden is a place of sanctuary for all who need it, whether they are survivors of abuse, grieving a loved one, or otherwise in need of tranquillity.

In addition to the gazebo, recent additions a bug hotel and water feature.

There is also a remembrance wall where you can dedicate space in memory of a loved one.