Site 5: Rosary Garden

En Español

 

This beautiful garden was installed by Saint Ann School families over six weeks in Spring 2005.  It was first conceived by parishioner and school parent Suzanne Williams, a landscape architect.  She hoped to transform an unappealing bare corner of the school yard into an attractive space for children and adults.

The PTO supported the idea, and a design committee was formed.  The committee determined that a rosary garden would be an ideal addition to the school grounds.  The garden was designed as a place to meditate on the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary.

Many families and every school class pitched in to bring this idea to fruition.  Architects (and school parents) Carol Rickard-Brideau and Scott Brideau worked on the design and construction of the pergola.  Art teacher Karen Jaslow led the 8th grade in creating the entryway cross. The kindergarten class “planted” worms to break up the soil. The 7th grade installed the Mary solar fountain.  Parent, artist and gardener Maureen Howell led family rosary “bead” painting parties and helped select plants appropriate for the site.  Each class had a hand in planting the garden.  Over 50 families took turns digging, tilling, and pushing a wheelbarrow.  The garden was blessed and dedicated on May 6, 2005.

Dedication of the Rosary Garden, May 6, 2005, view of Baptismal Bridge symbolizing the first luminous mystery, Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan.

Grass was installed the next year, a gift of the Pakenham family. The garden uses native plants to attract pollinators.  The garden has been cared for and maintained by school families since its installation. A rain barrel has been added to store water for irrigation.  School and parish children learn to pray the Rosary here.  All parishioners and visitors can enjoy this contemplative place for private prayer.

School parents weeding Rosary Garden at Clean-Up Day 2021.

Start of the Rosary Walk.

This story of the Rosary Garden epitomizes the spirit of Saint Ann School and parish.  A true community effort transformed what had been a barren, compacted patch of dirt into a welcoming garden that enriches the lives of all who enter it.