Dingmans Ferry church dedicates grove

By Linda Fields
DINGMANS FERRY — It took about two years to plan, raise funds and complete, so there were smiles all around on Aug. 21 when the congregants of the Dingmans Ferry United Methodist Church dedicated their new outdoor Grove for Prayer and Meditation with a special Sunday service.
Designed and built by Jerry Schierloh, a lay member of the church, the grove is set amid a cluster of pine trees on the property — quite apropos for what is often called “The Little Church in the Woods.”
Schierloh says the design underscores the “spirit of the church, its congregation and its programs with a special emphasis on music, prayer, and missions.” The grove features a Saint Francis meditation garden, a prayer circle and invitational chapel — all connected with wheelchair accessible inspirational paths and benches for those who wish to meditate quietly. There are barrels to hold a variety of plant life with biblical significance during the various seasons.
Mary Balton, chairperson of the church finance committee says much of the funding for the grove came from donations. “A lot of people donated in memory of someone, and there will be commemorative plaques for that.”
Added Balton, “The grove is open for anyone to come sit and enjoy it at any time, but we’re hoping that people will also choose to have their wedding here or christening here.” She said, in addition to outdoor services, the church would like to see children discover the meaning of the grove.
A surprise ending occurred at Sunday’s dedication: The Rev. Dr. Doug Miller was asked by a couple to preside at an impromptu renewal of their wedding vows. Said Schierloh, “It was wonderful to catch the spirit and excitement of the congregation. It will be even more rewarding to see how the church promotes the use of the Grove through its various ministries in the months and years to come.”