It was a slurpy-goo
d meal for a good cause on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Dunnellon Presbyterian Church. The slurping sound, reminiscent of Disney’s animated movie “Lady and the Tramp,” came from a spaghetti dinner. The cause was for the maintenance of the church’s memorial garden.
The garden was dedicated on Palm Sunday, April 11, 2003, as a sacred place to remember loved ones and give thanks. The ceremony concluded with the release of butterflies that have long been embraced by Christians as a symbol of new life.
Rev. Jeff Welch said during the ceremony, “Butterflies are fitting symbols to be released as we celebrate the dedication of this wonderful garden, which too boldly announces new life to all who enjoy its beauty.”
The congregation responded by lifting its voice to God, saying the garden was, “for all who, through the past 110 years, have been witnesses to your life and love in this community and beyond. We now stop in the ongoing cycle of the church year to give you thanksgiving and dedicate this memorial garden to the glory of your name.”
The 23-year-old perpetual memorial garden, with its winding path and benches upon which to rest, alongside plants under shade trees, acts as a labyrinth for meditation and peacefulness.