Ascension's Celebration of Life Garden was dedicated on All Saints Day 1998. In the intervening years, dozens of families have laid their loved ones to rest in the Garden, knowing their memory will be respected and the grounds cared for in perpetuity. Late last year, the Garden trustees realized the Garden was nearing capacity, and that, in order, to continue to provide a beautiful and respectful resting place for our members, the Garden would need to be expanded.

In cooperation with the congregation's leadership and the Village of Northbrook, the trustees oversaw the addition of two walls, Wisdom and Trust, which provide 104 additional interment spaces. We will gather to dedicate these new walls on Sunday, October 19, at 9:30 a.m. We will gather in the Garden to give thanks for those who have gone before us, and set this space apart for God's praise and honor and to comfort those who grieve.

May God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, bless those interred in this Garden, who share in God's eternal presence. May we know God's comfort, peace and the certain hope of resurrection and heavenly reunion with those who have finished their heavenly journey.

Following the dedication, we will move to the sanctuary for worship at 10 a.m.