Memorials to loved ones at new garden
A MEMORIAL garden dedicated to friends and relatives who have passed away outside of the UK has been created in Coventry.
The garden, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wood End, is the culmination of a community project which enables people to have a plaque dedicated to their loved one who is buried outside of the UK.
On October 6 children from St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School joined forces with members of the local community to take part in a ‘planting day.’
Parish priest, Father George Bennett, said: “This is a wonderful project that has seen the community work together to welcome everyone to Wood End.
“This is space that anyone can use and people have the opportunity to buy a plaque dedicated to their loved one.
“They can come and pay their respects if it is not possible to get to the final resting place.
“I am very proud of the work that has taken place here.”
Several local organisations helped with the landscaping and planting of the garden, which was also made possible thanks to a grant from the Sisters of the Parish.
Sister Veronica Woolman, who played a key role in the project, said: “This came from our parish community. Essentially this is a place for people to remember their loved ones if they are not buried in this country - or if they have been cremated and their ashes scattered elsewhere.
“We put it to the vote, whether people wanted it or not.
“They were overwhelmingly in favour of having it.
“The enthusiasm has been so great.
“Also it has been wonderful the way it has brought the whole wider community together.”
A bereavement group is also in operation at the church.
More than 250 people attended a formal blessing service and the vicar from Church of the Risen Christ in Wyken, Rev Linda Mudd, was also in attendance.