GSA 2020 Annual Update

Have you heard of a place that offers love, comfort, kindness, support, peace and tranquility? The Garden of the Sleeping Angels was originally created as a memorial space to give those who have lost a baby or child a place to remember, reflect, grieve and heal. From one garden to over fifteen, from a few memorials to over 170, the GSA has quietly grown to meet the needs of families and individuals who have experienced loss.

With Covid19, loss has morphed into not only loss in the traditional sense, but for many, loss of a way of life as we’ve known it. We’ve recognized the changing needs in our community, so have offered our gardens and open spaced to others – people who need to breathe fresh air and wander; experience freedom to be. With that we have experienced such amazing, additional support for our mission from people who love what we represent and want to show support for the many families we serve and be part of our future.

Since receiving our 501c, non profit status in 2012, we have grown immensely, not only our garden numbers and babies and children remembered, but in our vision. We’ve become more open to God’s vision, and He shows us daily how to comfort or awaken hearts to His peace. His method has always been available, but it seems more clear to us of late. Tours of the gardens have sparked more interest from those unfamiliar with our very existence. People stop perhaps out of curiosity but it’s the energy and almost palpable presence that seems to more frequently bring them back. Many return with a friend, often with an addition to our decorative, annual pots or a meaningful plaque and most recently, an offer to provide additional seating via a new bench. Situations are arising more frequently where seemingly random conversations lead to immersion and heartfelt passion for our families’ grief.

Many of you are aware that we have events through the year: our annual plant sale was a success, even with Covid skepticism and wariness. We had second thoughts about the safety of it but were strongly encouraged through the enthusiasm demonstrated within the community. We were able to hold it over the usual first weekend in June (with mandatory social distancing and masking).

The other major event ~ the Wave of Light on October 15th, was very well attended, as families and friends lit candles in remembrancxe of the 170 babies memorialized within the gardens.

We have traditionally displayed a Christmas tree in one of the gardens. We’ve invited families to bring an ornament to hang in remembrance of their loved one. Each ornament is kept over the years and re-hung in December, with more added every year.

We are happy to with 2020 farewell, but delighted that you stopped to read about us. Please contact us through this site, or by text at 612-986-3737