As part of the Care for Creation action plan for the parish, the St. Marie and St. Bernadette’s Seeds of Hope group has created prayer gardens at both churches – spaces for quiet reflection, prayer, and care for God’s creation. These gardens not only offer peace to parishioners but also provide a haven for local wildlife.

Last autumn, “Seed Swaps” after Sunday Mass brought donations of seeds and small plants chosen to attract bees and insects. St. Bernadette’s garden took root in autumn 2024,with St. Marie’s following in spring 2025. Parishioners worked together to plant, assemble benches, and craft a welcoming plaque from recycled wood.

During a Lenten retreat day, children from the parish’s junior schools helped create bug hotels, now nestled among the flowers. Bird feeders and water sources ensure our feathered friends are also cared for.

Each bench holds a waterproof folder of laminated prayer cards. These include seasonal prayers, traditional favourites, and prayers for children, regularly updated to reflect the liturgical calendar.

This project has been a joyful expression of parish unity – a shared effort that will grow and flourish year after year. Volunteer Ruth Ashcroft reflected: “What we have enjoyed in this project is the parish spirit in joining together to help create gardens, which will grow and change with the seasons and years to come.”