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Garden of Beatitudes
The first garden we developed stands between St. Johannes and St. Andrew's Lutheran Churches and is directly behind the altar area of the Taizé chapel. This treasure was established by Martha Bailey, wife of former St. Johannes pastor, Reverend Dr. Lynn Bailey.
Our largest and most lovely garden has recently been given a major "face-lift" mainly due to the selfless devotion, leadership, and funds from council persons, Susan Crocker and Albie Duc. But also, many dedicated church members have given up many hours in recent months helping to create this beautiful outdoor "sanctuary". Notice the gorgeous Charleston brick and bluestone patio, and the newly-planted trees, shrubs, and flowers! Initially, the garden received its name because it features the Beatitudes carved in the adorning stones throughout the garden.
However, what once began merely as a quiet, contemplative place of solace from the hustle and bustle of the city, is now also a memorial garden in which some members spread the ashes of dear departed loved ones.
St. Francis of Assisi
In the center of the garden is a statue of St. Francis of Assisi, which stands on top of an altar built by a parishioner from stones, many of which are old cobblestones from the Charleston area. In the past, the altar was frequently used, as weather permited, for communion during the then-weekly Taizé service.
Until recently, all of the flowers planted in the Garden of the Beatitudes were white, depicting the purity of the saints and the simplicity of the beatitudes.
On the brick wall at the rear of the garden hang two important symbols: a hand-made bronze cross and a Jewish menorah. Both of these lovely pieces of art reflect St. Johannes' Judeo-Christian beliefs.
- * The garden is open to the public and is accessible by the path beside the former
- St. Andrew's Lutheran Church on Wentworth Street. *
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St. Johannes Lutheran Church
130 Years of Ministry in the Heart of the City
St. Johannes Lutheran Church | 48 Hasell Street, Charleston, SC 29401 | 843-722-8906 | stjohanneschurch.org
