At the start of a video commemorating the St. Francis Sculpture Garden at the Dominican Center at Maywood are the words “walk, breathe, sit.” Three very simple words but powerful reminders to all of us that sometimes these simple acts are all that is required of us.
This garden located on the city’s northeast side was designed by architect and master gardener Bill Cox, whose firm brought to our city the main greenhouse at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, and was created through the collaboration of landscape designer Skip Herrema to bring to West Michigan a space where people and animals could be take a break and reflect on our existence in this beautiful world.
The bronze sculptures within are of St. Francis of Assisi — a saint known for his silent message of living by example — and were created by local artist Mic Carlson. (Carlson’s art work was recently added to the permanent decor at the brand new HopCat Chicago location and featured rock and roll icons.)
To commemorate the International Day of Peace ( also known as Peace Day), the local nonprofit Instruments of Hope invites the community to join them this Sunday, Sept. 25, from 1-1:45 p.m. in front of the St. Francis International Peace Statue for a “Peace Walk” through the St. Francis of Assisi Sculpture Garden.
Once you arrive at the place where St. Francis is perched on the top of a globe semi-submerged in the earth, guests are encouraged to take pieces of colorful chalk provided by IOH to write their wishes for peace on the sculpture’s base. Those who are adventurous with their evening walks will equally enjoy viewing the Saint’s patched tunic, which radiates a brilliant glow at dusk.
Peace Day, traditionally celebrated on Sept. 21, was founded in 1981 and is a day for all of humanity to commit to peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace.
After the walk, guests are encouraged to join IOH inside the Dominican Chapel from 2-3 p.m. for an interfaith service sponsored by Institute for Global Education. Immediately following, light refreshments will be provided along with fellowship with attendees. And it should go without saying, but in keeping with the message of inclusion and interfaith, all are welcome in this reflective space, which we recently featured for their blessing of the animals event.
Admission: Free
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