Bell Tower Garden
On Saturday, May 3, 2025, we asked God's blessings on our beautiful new gardens that surround the Bell Tower near the church entrance. The major improvements to the bell tower area, including a new courtyard with a gorgeous new water feature, new teak seating, and three garden areas filled with native plants were all made possible through the generosity of dedicated members of our parish and dedicated in the loving memory of faithful individuals.
Background
The Bell Tower, filled with its carrillon of bells, has long been a focal point of the church. The area surrounding it was welcoming but never fully developed to its full potential.
In the Spring of 2025, through the generosity of the Drotman family, the courtyard and fountain were created and dedicated in loving memory of Judith Stewart Drotman. Judy filled her family with love and was a faithful servant of God's kingdom.
In addition the Butterfly Garden boarding the driveway at the Church entrance, was given in loving memory of David Diggs who faithfully lead the Flower Guild and created beauty for so many.
Features
Key features of the courtyard are a seating area with teak benches that provides a wonderful space for outdoor worship and celebratory gatherings. The fountain, titled Perisseia, was created by artist Greg Robertson. The Greek word "perissos" (περισσός) generally means exceeding, abundant, or more than enough. It can also imply something extraordinary, superior, or surpassing. In various contexts, it can describe something over and above what is necessary or expected.
The Butterfly Garden, a visible reminder of God's bounty to us and our role as stewards of his gifts, is filled with milkweeds, nectar sources, and shelter needed to sustain Monarch Butterflies as they migrate through North America.
Role in The Community
The Bell Tower Garden area provide our community a space for worship services ranging from an outdoor Eucharist to the Blessing of the Animals in the Fall. It also becomes a place for celebrations ranging from fellowship gatherings to the traditional ringing of the tower bells by newly married couples.
The Butterfly Garden is tended in an ongoing rotation by our Garden Ministry. They meet monthly to make sure the plants are given the nurture needed to be a true Monarch Way station.