SERVICE
MARIAN GARDEN OF PEACE AT MARYWOOD
“It was a chilly Fall afternoon, and I was watering Mary's Garden on the grounds of Marywood as part of the San Juan Del Rio CCW team that waters the plants once a week. It was quiet, and as I carried the water from the spigot to the garden, I questioned how many people come to pray at the garden and how many people even know that it exists.
A few minutes later, I heard the sound of a car idling next to the garden. An older gentleman asked if I was the garden's caretaker. I explained to him that the garden is a Diocesan Council of Catholic Women initiative, and several volunteers keep the garden watered on a regular basis. He thanked me and asked me to thank the DCCW for such a beautiful place to pray. He explained that he drives his mobility-challenged wife each morning to pray by Mary's Garden and that it's a special place for them.
God certainly answered my question as to who knows about the garden! In the weeks since, I have noticed more retreat participants stopping by. It truly is a sacred place of deep prayer and reflection with the loving presence of our Blessed Mother.”
-Amy Kirk
President, San Juan Del Rio Council of Catholic Women
The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (DCCW) continues to sow seeds of faith, beauty, and devotion at the Marywood Retreat & Conference Center through the creation of a peaceful Marian prayer garden. Inspired by a desire to offer a place of quiet reflection and spiritual renewal, the garden is taking beautiful shape.
Under the leadership of DCCW President Pattie Halle & our Service Commission, the group has already installed a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, added solar lighting, and begun detailed landscaping plans. Most recently, more flowers and plants were added to enhance the garden’s natural beauty. The vibrant red blooms at the feet of Our Lady resemble roses — a touching and symbolic tribute to Mary, often referred to as the Mystical Rose.
The garden will serve as a serene haven for retired priests living at Casa San Pedro, along with retreatants, visitors, and anyone seeking a quiet moment with Our Lady in prayer. “We hope the garden will be a place where hearts are lifted and spirits are renewed through Mary’s gentle presence,” said Pattie.
This growing project is a reflection of the DCCW’s ongoing mission to nurture spiritual spaces and inspire faith-filled encounters through beauty, prayer, and presence.
How to Prepare a Mary’s Garden in 7 Simple Steps.
1. Choose the Right Location: Any size, anywhere — a small pot or a full garden. A peaceful spot for prayer, reflection, and enjoyment.
2. Prepare the Soil: Use a container or plant directly in the ground. Loosen existing soil and remove rocks. Add compost or fresh soil mix for healthy growth.
3. Include a Statue or Image of Mary: Keep it simple — a small statue, painted rock, or laminated prayer card. The focus is on devotion, not expense.
4. Plan Your Flowers: Choose flowers based on their names, history with Marian devotion, or meaning in the liturgical year. Or simply pick blooms that bring you joy.
5. Plant with Purpose: Arrange your garden thoughtfully, creating a serene, welcoming space.
6. Pray and Reflect: Use your garden as a quiet retreat to grow closer to Mary and God.
7. Tend with Love: Care for your garden regularly as an act of devotion.
What a Mary Garden Brings:
A sacred space for prayer and connection with God and Mary. A visual symbol of Mary’s love and presence. A peaceful place that celebrates God’s beauty in creation. A meaningful activity to share with family and community. A way to honor Mary through ongoing care and love.
