New Prayer Oasis: Virgin Mary's Garden Unveils in Ormond Beach!
Discover the new Mary’s Peace Garden at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Ormond Beach, a tranquil sanctuary for prayer and reflection.
New Prayer Oasis: Virgin Mary's Garden Unveils in Ormond Beach!
In Ormond Beach, a delightful new project is blossoming at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church, where plans are currently underway for Mary’s Peace Garden. Covering an impressive 6,000 square feet, this outdoor sanctuary is designed to provide a tranquil space for prayer and reflection, making it a welcome addition to the spiritual landscape of the community. The groundbreaking for this endeavor took place on August 6, setting the stage for a serene oasis to honor Marian devotion.
The garden will feature a thoughtfully paved walkway, measuring 170 feet long and 16 feet wide, lined with 14 small monuments that acknowledge The Stations of the Cross. Notably, the path will be framed by seven pillars on either side, illustrating key moments from Jesus Christ’s Passion. At the culmination of this peaceful path will stand a stunning 6-foot tall marble statue of the Virgin Mary, resting on a 5-foot base and weighing a solid 900 pounds, imported directly from Italy. As noted by News-Journal Online, the overall aim of this garden is to create a serene environment that is not only for the congregation but also for visitors.
A Sanctuary for Prayer and Reflection
Mary’s Peace Garden will do much more than just beautify the church grounds; it will provide a dedicated space for parish gatherings and outdoor social functions, allowing residents and visitors alike to come together in a shared experience of devotion. Rev. Justin Vakko, the church’s pastor, has expressed the significance of this project, emphasizing how Marian devotion plays a critical role in the community’s spiritual life.
Located between the church’s main parking lot and Nova Road, the garden will replace existing small statues of Mary, transforming the area into a landscaped haven. With a project cost under $400,000 and financial backing from the Orlando diocese, there is an enthusiastic response from parishioners looking to sponsor this noble effort. This garden is also set to coincide with the church’s 60th anniversary celebrations in 2026, adding another layer of significance to its development.
The Global Importance of Marian Devotion
Mary’s Peace Garden is part of a larger tapestry of Marian devotion found in Catholic communities worldwide. There’s something to be said for the enduring influence of such devotion, as highlighted by Catholic Shrine Basilica. For instance, the cult of “Mary, Untier of Knots,” which has inspired widespread devotion particularly in Argentina and Brazil, speaks to the universality of Mary’s significance in the Catholic faith. This devotion gained traction following the election of Pope Francis, further globalizing an already profound respect and love for the figure of Mary in various cultures.
Just as St. Peter Am Perlach in Augsburg serves as a site of pilgrimage and devotion, the upcoming Mary’s Peace Garden will soon become a new local sanctuary. It’s not just about the physical beauty of the space; it’s about fostering a deep spiritual connection among the faithful—a connection that echoes through generations.
With construction expected to wrap up by November, the anticipation builds among churchgoers and the local community alike. Will Mary’s Peace Garden become a cherished refuge in Ormond Beach? Only time will tell, but with such dedication behind it, hopes remain high for this peaceful haven.