‘Garden of Healing’ in Ventura offers silent space
New ‘Garden of Healing’ in Ventura offers silent space for those hurt by abuse
The first thing you hear is the sound of water.
Water symbolizing purification. Prayer. Peace.
That’s what visitors to the Los Angeles Archdiocese’s second “Garden of Healing” at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Ventura are meant to find. In other words, a space where those suffering from abuse or trauma can pray, find tranquility, and perhaps even begin to heal.
The latest garden was dedicated on April 25 with a special blessing by the parish’s pastor, Father Leon Hutton, as well as the recitation of a novena for healing from abuse, and a presentation by the archdiocese’s Victims Assistance Ministry.
Along with greenery and benches for reflection, there’s a water feature in the garden, a “weeping wall” fountain meant to evoke the sorrow of the abuse, but also the promise of renewal.