Cemeteries have been associated with churches from their early beginnings up until very recent times. The strong connection between death and the continuing spiritual life of a church person remains fundamental to our faith. We recognize the preciousness of life and the meaning of existence after physical death.

memorial-garden-laying-flowIn recent years, greater numbers of people are choosing cremation and a meaningful place for the ashes to rest. Many churches, therefore, have created memorial gardens, where the ashes of loved ones may lay in a place they have loved and been a part of.   Flowers and trees wax and wane with the seasons, speaking always of the promise of resurrection; children’s laughter rings in the hallways; worship is on-going just inside the walls, with hymns of praise, songs of thanksgiving, words of hope, attitudes of love, forgiveness and compassion.   A memorial garden is a reminder of life, ongoing and eternal.

The garden was rededicated on October 28, 2012 after Sunday worship and just before superstorm Sandy moved in!  We prayed together, sang “In the Garden”, read from Ecclesiastes 3.  The children planted a pot of daisies. Our new Garden is a “thin” place, where we may sense God’s presence in our lives and in the eternal lives of our departed loved ones.

We are fortunate to have a Memorial Garden in place. This beautiful spot was created lovingly with gifts from members and friends of Ledyard Congregational, and is tended with care and dedication by volunteers of the Church.