The Memorial Garden at Grace Covenant provides a quiet space for meditation and prayer, as well as a resting place for the cremains of members and friends of the Grace Covenant community. The garden was conceived by Grace Covenant members, and is cared for by Grace Covenant members. It is an inclusive space which accepts ashes from both members and non-members.
Anyone wishing to inter ash remains in the garden may complete an application and arrange payment in the church office.
In response to the leadership of a few faithful members of Grace Covenant with a vision and the Worship Council, Session appointed a committee to work with various professionals and bring that vision of a memorial garden at Grace Covenant to life. After an initial dedication in 1998, the completed garden was dedicated in April 2002 with the participation of the entire congregation.
In 2018, an anonymous donor provided funds to create an indoor meditation space overlooking the garden, and funds were also raised to install a new water fountain in the outdoor space.
An Asheville ironworker designed and crafted the garden gate. A stone from the Iona Community in Scotland rests at the center of the gate’s Celtic cross. The latch of the garden gate remains unsecured, leaving the garden open to all.
There is a rich, loving tradition of Grace Covenant members caring for the garden. A team of committed volunteers faithfully plants, tends, and shares responsibilities for its maintenance and renewal.