A time to contemplate
Groundwork under way for garden in Pictou
A local church is continuing with its plans to build a contemplative garden.
Pictou United Church is in the second year of a three-year plan to building a new garden area that will give people a quiet place to collect their thoughts or host outdoor events in a peaceful setting.
Ruth Mackay of Pictou United Church said the three-year plan was developed by retired landscape architect Ron Laking that will enable the garden to be dedicated for the 55th anniversary of the current church building in June 2019.
The project began in 2017 with the planting of 12 additional shrubs and one new tree as well as construction of an arbour entrance.
This year, the project will include a diversion of roof watershed through underground piping into the existing dry well, grading and topsoil work as well as a pathway and planting thyme lawn and ornamental grass.
A gazebo will also be constructed this year and benches, water features and lighting will be added.
Finally, in 2019, raised garden beds will be made for children interested in planting vegetables and there will be additional shrubbery beds made in the area. She said three UV protected mural canvasses will also be hung on the church wall and sculptural pieces will be put in place.
“The spiritual and therapeutic value of gardens is well-established, and this project will enable us to extend the sanctuary of Pictou United into the out-ofdoors where it will be waiting to enhance the well-being of one and all,” said Mackay.
She said the garden will be named and suggestions will be taken from people later this year. Donations are also being accepted by the Pictou United Church Council.
The council has a list of items that are available for purchase and placement in the garden including shrubs, benches, sculptures, lighting, mural canvases and gazebo. Donations can be made to the Contemplative Garden Fund.
“We have received a lot of support form a lot of different directions and it has been very heartwarming,” she said.