Maria Stein Center dedicates ‘Angel Garden’
in memory of children.
in memory of children.
The 9 ft. granite monument with a 4 x 4 ft. sculpture on each side depicts happy children of various ages, at peace in God, symbolized by extended arms and hands.
In its outdoor setting within the shrine’s existing statue garden, the new monument is designed to be a place of prayer and reflection to cherish the memory of children and young people who have died, from unborn infants to young adults.
According to Precious Blood Sister Barbara Ann Hoying, MSC director, this newest addition to the grounds of Maria Stein Center was “a long-time dream.” A committee of nine couples first met to brainstorm about the project in fall 2006. In spring 2007, with the approval of the Sisters of the Precious Blood leadership, they chose the artist, approved the design and then launched fundraising efforts. The completed project, with a cost of just over $21,000, was totally paid for by donations.
Many people have experienced the loss of a child, Sister Barbara Ann said, whether through miscarriage, abortion, illness, accident, even disappearance and abduction. The grief process for parents and other family members often continues for years. The Angel Garden was designed to provide a healthy and healing way to remember these children, Sister Barbara Ann said. “We expect the garden to be a place of quiet reflection, of heart-to-heart conversations, of deep consolation.”
The monument was designed and produced by LepoWorks, near Lima. The company is the brainchild of twin brothers, David and Robert Lepo, lifelong art partners.
The duo has had numerous commissions for a wide range of projects, often very large pieces, ranging from 14-ft. stainless steel sculptures at the University of Toledo’s Scott Park ball field to a wooden altar, ambo and crucifix for the new chapel at St. Rita Medical Center in Lima. Most recently the brothers’ 11-ft. bronze statue of Mary at Cana was dedicated on the campus of the University of Dayton. In addition to Ohio creations, the brothers’ commissioned work is also exhibited at the University of Notre Dame and five California libraries.
All are welcome to attend the dedication ceremony, which will take place on the lawn and courtyard area west of the shrine building. In addition to a brief prayer service, there will be song, refreshments and time for socializing.
Thank you for your continued support of Maria Stein Center and our ministry of peace, prayer and hospitality. Please keep us in your prayer. We ask God’s blessing on you.
May LOVE be strong in your life—providing warmth and healing!
For more information:
Maria Stein Heritage Museum
National Marian Shrine of the Holy Relics
2291 St. Johns Rd.
P.O. Box 128
Maria Stein, Ohio 45860
(419) 925-4532
e-mail:
