St Matthews Anglican church in Wendouree is hoping to establish a new garden in its ground to provide a space of reflection and solace for those who may need it.
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As Howitt Street is developed from a residential street to an increasingly industrial and medically-focussed precinct, Father Constantine Osuchukwu says he would like to offer a space not only for those who may be stressed following a doctor's appointment, but the lonely and grieving generally.
"We live in an increasingly fragmented and lonely society," Father Constantine says.
"In response, St Matthew's Anglican parish seeks to create spaces for people to meet together for presence, encounter and community."
He says the proposed garden is a work in progress, with much consultation still needed among parishioners and the local community and businesses.
"In practical terms we are exploring the possibility of a Community Reflection Garden for people who access the medical precinct in Howitt Street as well as for those who are lonely and marginalised," he says.
A concert and recital held earlier in July raised $1400 for the proposed garden, with over 60 people attending.
"It was cold but a lovely day," Father Constantine says.
"We need to share solidarity in suffering. It's ironic: we are the most connected we have ever been on the planet, but we are also the most isolated we have ever been, too. Events such as the Royal Commission into Mental Health make us aware of the extent of other's suffering and how we must make time to be present - for ourselves and for others."
Father Constantine, who is a trained counsellor, says he hopes the garden and church will be a place for people who are from outside of Ballarat as well.
"Sometimes country people come to Ballarat for treatment and those people need a peaceful place as well. This will be a simple place of quiet, a place of reflection."
St Matthews is celebrating 125 years as a parish and church in Ballarat.