It is the desire of the St Mary’s Vestry to install a Peace/Therapeutic Garden within the west end of the parking area at the front of the Church.
It is envisaged that this garden will comprise of strategically placed raised flower/herb beds and some ground level planting, set within an area of multi-coloured sandstone paving. The paved area would be designed to be complementary to St Mary’s in both style and colours. We also intend to add two more benches to increase seating capability.
We hope that by re-developing this area, it will not only look more presentable, but it will also enhance our outreach to the local community and further afield, thereby sending out a message that St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral is a welcoming Church, open to all.
We are currently in the application process for grant funding from the Provincial Recovery and Renewal fund, which, if successful, we anticipate will go some way to funding this project.
In accordance with Canon 35 (3) of the Scottish Episcopal Church Code of Canons:
‘OF THE STRUCTURE, FURNITURE AND MONUMENTS OF CHURCHES, AND THE DUE CARE THEREOF’
I am compelled to circulate the intentions of the Vestry of St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral to the congregation therein. This is to comply with the requirement for any comments or suggestions to be made and considered by the Vestry Committee, before a formal application under the said canon is submitted to the Diocesan Buildings Committee. This consultation period will last for 4 weeks from the date of this document, after which any amendments necessary will be made and the application to the Diocese will be sent.
I would ask that you give this matter your serious consideration. The profile of St Mary’s Church has been raised significantly due to the recent status of Pro-Cathedral, this gives us the opportunity to enhance our offering in the community with long lasting impact.
Blessing Aways,
Reverend Canon Terry Taggart