Remembrance Garden Prayer Service

Description

Join us as we gather with Capital Region families for a special prayer service to honor the memory of babies who were born into the arms of angels. Together we will join our voices in prayer and honor the memory of daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Dedicated in 2013, the Remembrance Garden is a memorial for those who have experienced the devastating loss of a baby, whether it was years ago or a more recent loss. It has blossomed into a place of peaceful reflection for families who have experienced a miscarriage or the death of a baby, either before it was born or shortly after birth. It is a space to meditate; a place where the existence of a baby is affirmed even if the baby was never acknowledged. This garden of healing is where families can openly grieve the loss of their child, and mourn their shattered hopes and dreams. It is a place to memorialize a life that ended far too soon, and is intended to bring comfort to those whose empty arms bring such heartache. Lisa Whitacre who has attended the annual service for the past 3 years in honor of her son, spoke at the 2018 service. “We are grateful to be able to visit our son [Hudson]… and appreciate having the Remembrance Garden to reflect and remember that we’re not the only ones who have suffered a tremendous loss. It is truly a special place for our princes and princesses to be remembered.” The garden’s contemplative setting by the water, where families can gaze upon the garden or the beautiful bronze statue of Rachel mourning, is the perfect setting for the Remembrance Garden and service which is held each spring around Mother’s Day. “Our babies lived. Our babies were loved. We had hopes and dreams shattered. We cannot forget.” Lori Biskup, Albany Diocesan Cemeteries Associate Director. If you, a family member, or someone you know has suffered the loss of a child, we hope you will consider attending and/or sharing this information on our Remembrance Garden and annual Prayer Service.