2025 December Newsletter Final

Ministry Update

St. Mary’s Gardens are a cherished legacy of beauty and devotion, inspired by the vision of the Rev. Robert Wood Nicholson, St. Mary’s third rector (1946–1960). Drawing inspiration from English and Italian garden design and influenced by Frederick Law Olmsted, Fr. Nicholson transformed the marshy land surrounding the church into a series of enchanting garden “rooms.” Featuring canals, statuary, water features, and a blend of formal and natural landscaping, the gardens reflect a harmonious blend of art and nature. Open year-round to the public, St. Mary’s Gardens invite visitors to experience the wonder of God’s creation. From the serene Daffodil Meadow in spring to its tranquil paths and architectural beauty, the gardens provide a space for meditation and renewal. The Committee is regularly tends to the garden’s needs through monthly workdays and special projects. Its beauty serves as the backdrop for many of the church’s outdoor events, from Sunday morning fellowship “Lemonade on the Lawn” to Summer Cookouts, Angels’ Treasures’ Tent Sales, the 9/11 Remembrance Day receptions, as well as private parties, to name a few. Committee members include: Becky Freer Freedman and Peter Wagenblass, Co-Chairs; Charles Calhoun, Hilary Godin, Lilo Kimball, Connie Van Maur, Leezie Magruder, Keith Harris, Amy Crocker, John Monacci and Elizabeth Betti. Committee Keeps Up Garden Legacy

The Turnbull-Wheeler Family, donated the platform feeder near the memorial garden.

The Monacci - McClain family donated feeders which hang in the Fiacre garden.

Calling All Wild Bird Lovers

Thanks to the generosity of Beverly Wheeler who donated large bags of wild bird seed, we can keep our bird friends fed well during the cold months. There are several feeders around the gardens, and the committee is seeking help from individuals willing to keep the feeders filled one or twice weekly. Timing is flexible, so if you are interested, you can pick your own schedule. The seed is kept outside the back garden shed for convenience. For more information, please reach out to Peter Wagenblass at pwagenblass@aol.com or Becky Freer Freedman at milesdavislovesbecky@gmail.com.

Participants of Project Forward at Cape Cod Community College have assisted in tending St. Mary’s gardens for several years.

Lilo Kimball (right) has been a long-standing committee gardener and enjoys giving tours and sharing information about the garden history.

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