Neglected church corner turned into vibrant garden

A once neglected corner near St Michael the Archangel Church, Huntingdon, has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming garden featuring a bright mural and a statue of Our Lady. Fr Philip Shryane reports.

This corner, near the entrance to St Michael the Archangel Church, used to be very dull—a space gathering litter and weeds, covered with old decking, and needing some TLC to revive it and make a welcoming entrance to the church grounds.

Work was done here: the decking was lifted and taken to pieces to be upcycled into a planter; membrane and gravel were laid to provide a clean space; pots and plants were brought in, as well as our statue of Our Lady. The whole scene was brought to life when the dull grey render on the wall behind the statue was painted with a bright, sunny picture. The painting was done by Diane Kennedy from Bury St Edmunds, for many years an art teacher at St Louis Middle School in the town. Fr Philip invited her to do some work for St Michael’s, and the result is warm and lively, adding some much-needed colour to this corner. Many people sit on the bench and pray their rosary, while others bring flowers and pot plants to decorate the small garden. All appreciate the peace and beauty of a lovely welcome to the church.

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