South Church Andover on Central Street is slated to begin construction of a new Memorial Columbarium Garden this spring, with completion set for this fall.
The Memorial Columbarium Garden will be located on a corner of the church’s property bordered by School and Central Streets near the fenced-in playground and will feature fully accessible walkways, benches, a labyrinth, and a butterfly garden.
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“Our cemetery honors our past while providing a peaceful place for reflection. The historic grounds, with their mature trees and labyrinth, create a serene environment for remembrance,” said Senior Pastor Dana Allen Walsh. “With the new columbarium and garth, everyone in our community, regardless of mobility challenges, can experience this tranquil space. Our expansion will preserve this cherished place for generations to come, ensuring families have a dignified setting to lay their loved ones to rest for many years into the future.”
The South Parish burial grounds, which opened in 1710, is at capacity. Niches for burial of approximately 600 cremated remains will be available in both a columbarium wall and a garth. South Church is offering 10% pre-construction discount for columbarium niche and garth plot purchases until May 1.
The new space was designed by local Andover landscape architect and former select board member Chris Huntress of Huntress Associates Inc.
“It continues to be a pleasure to work with South Church as they plan ways to expand their ministry to parishioners now and in the future. The committee’s goal has always been to create outdoor spaces for both recreation and quiet contemplation,” Huntress said. “I believe these new improvements will do that, and I am reminded of the words of Winston Churchill, ‘We shape our landscapes; thereafter, they shape us’.”
Desmond Landscape Contractors, Inc. of North Andover will be responsible for the construction.