St. Vincent de Paul School's prayer garden provides peaceful retreat

Intermountain Catholic

+ Enlarge

This water fountain is one of the many design elements that make the St. Vincent de Paul School's prayer garden a peaceful retreat. Photo courtesy of St. VincentDe Paul School

Saint Vincent de Paul School has recently completed its Prayer Garden, which is located on the southeast side of the school near the 8th grade classroom.

The garden was designed and created as a prayerful space for students, staff, parents and the greater parish community. It contains a pergola, water fountain, statues of St. Francis and an angel, a birdbath, benches, wind chimes, a cross and many perennial shrubs and flowers.

Many parents, students and staff members put their heart and soul into its creation. Terri Musci, a landscape designer, was hired to draw the main plans and choose the most appropriate flowers, bushes and trees. The project began in March was completed this fall. The finishing touches are now being completed and a few more benches will be added, which will allow enough seating for a classroom of students. Each grade has also made a stepping stone, which will be placed in the garden.

This will be a tranquil place where teachers can take their students to pray, reflect and participate in art, writing and religious assignments. Students also will be able to do some schoolwork outside as well as reflect on God’s beauty.

A second phase of the garden is planned to begin in spring 2010. This will include a pathway down the hillside to the lower field with outdoor Stations of the Cross.