Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi        Stations of the Cross Prayer Garden

I am truly honored to help in the renewal of Bishop Lamy's garden.  The significance of incorporating Gib Singleton's beautiful life-size sculptures into this contemplative space is profound.  Our patron saint of Santa Fe, Saint Francis of Assisi, began the devotion to the Stations of the Cross, and with these sculptures, the garden becomes a sanctuary for that devotion.  Bishop Lamy cared deeply for this garden, and I chose to augment its existing richness.

The organic movement of the pathway represents the meandering nature of our own travels as we become closer to God.  Often the next step does not become illuminated until we have stumbled upon it.  The desert that Jesus passed through on His way to Calvary is felt in the dryness of the pathway, which narrows & moves slightly downward before reaching Simon the Cyrene.  With Simon's help, the subsequent assent is possible under the crushing weight of the cross.

I incorporate plants that thrive in our arid region. Some additionally have usefulness or Biblical significance.  Culinary herbs, such as Oregano, Sage and Thyme compliment Bishop Lamy's Mint patches.  Medicinal plants such as Yarrow and Echinacea provide healing of wounds and sickness.  Bleeding Hearts are traditionally placed around the Blessed Mother.  Agastache, or Wild Hyssop, reminds us of the hyssop reed touching the lips of Jesus while He was on the Cross.  Grapes epitomize the fruit crushed to become the enduring drink.  A water fountain quenches the thirst.

Devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary is deep within the Catholic heart.  By providing a complete Rosary within the pathway, the garden also becomes a place to honor this very special devotion.  I thank the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi for offering Bishop Lamy's garden to all for meditative prayer and reflection in our lives.  I hope that the peacefulness of the Stations of the Cross Sculpture Garden is enjoyed.  May we be nourished by a breath of fresh air.

Athena Beshur

Seeds of Wisdom, LLC

This design is also available in jpg format.