Memorial Garden
The students, staff and families of St Therese’s School gathered on Friday 29 November 2002 for the dedication of a new garden to commemorate those in the school community who have died.
It celebrates in a ‘school’ way the contribution students/staff and parents have made to St Therese’s School - and a ‘holy’ place in which to remember with current students and families.
St Therese’s Logos Committee has made a gift of $4,000 from contributions received to assist the establishment of this area.
Notes on its features
The cross is the major feature and symbolises the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, but importantly reminds us of the resurrection and eternal life through Christ.
The cross is made up of regular pavers. There is a circle made up of random paving at the intersection of the cross's arms to create a useful gathering space. The choice of materials represents order in the midst of chaos.
At the centre of the cross is a heart, which represents that our own love does not stop because someone we love has passed on. It also reminds us of God's love.
The central space with its bench seating can be used as an outdoor classroom, especially for religious education classes.
Also, this space, while used for commemoration, may be used for gatherings surrounding other important life affirming events, such as baptisms, first communion, confirmation, marriage, etc.
At the head of the cross is the water feature symbolising the life giving nature of water and also its cleansing power. As the water returns to the earth it reminds us of our own mortality and that all things 'return to the earth'. The bowl shape of this feature evokes the phrase from the Psalm 23:5 'my cup overflow'.
At the end of the left arm of the cross is a memorial all with plaques giving the names of the students, teachers and family members who were in the school community at time of their deaths.
The garden border is an unclipped Rosemary hedge as Rosemary is a symbol of remembrance.
Silver Birches represent the circle of life, going through a period of dormancy and then renewal. Four trees remind us of the four seasons. This tree occurs throughout Europe, including France, the home of St Therese. The trees give shade to the bench seats and the central space.
St Therese is often depicted as holding roses along with a crucifix and thus this association is symbolised here by the rose 'St Therese de Lisieux' planted at the foot of the cross. Roses are a symbol of Paradise and a rose garden is the genesis of the rosary. The Virgin Mary is often associated with roses, particularly the white rose which represents purity. The balance of the roses that make up the garden could all be bush 'Icebergs' which has long lasting white flowers. Alternatively, the roses could be a mix of colours, with plants chosen by members of the community and/or with symbolic names such as 'Peace', 'Mother's Love' etc. Between the roses and under and beyond the Silver Birches is planted with daffodils as these plants also have a distinct life-cycle and are linked with remembrance.
