Romsey Baptist Church unveiled the new space on Saturday, September 27, after months of work.
Rebecca Beer, the wife of the church’s former minister, the late Jonathan Beer, officially opened the garden.
The event started with a welcome from the current minister, Fiona Blaker, who thanked everyone who contributed to the project.
The garden has been unveiled following months of work.(Image: Romsey Baptist Church)
She shared the vision that led to the creation of the sensory garden: “A desire to provide a sanctuary where hearts can be still, where minds can find peace, and where souls can be renewed in the presence of our Creator.”
Fiona then blessed the garden and offered it to God’s service.
Rebecca was invited to cut the ribbon and declare the garden open.
In a heartfelt speech, she spoke about her late husband’s passion for the community of Romsey and his love of nature and gardens.
Following the ribbon-cutting, Rebecca planted an acer in memory of Jonathan, supported by Joan Taylor, a member of Romsey Baptist Church.
The visitors then explored the sensory garden, which features fragrant flowers, textured plants and a water feature.
The garden and the church building, dating back to 1811, are lit up in the evening.
During the opening, children enjoyed activities organised by members of the Romsey Men’s Shed.
The children built bug hotels, which they took home, leaving one in the garden to encourage wildlife.
The hands-on workshop was both fun and educational.
In the church café, volunteers served tea, coffee and homemade cakes, offering a chance for everyone to gather in fellowship and enjoy refreshments together.
The relaxed atmosphere reflected the spirit of community that had been central to the project from the beginning.
A church spokesperson said: “The new sensory garden now stands as a living testament to faith, community and remembrance – a space where nature and spirituality meet, and where the legacy of love and service continues to grow.”
Fiona and the Romsey Baptist Church family would like to thank the Romsey Future Programme Board for their generous support, with a grant from a UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The spokesperson added: “The garden is a space for all of our wonderful community to enjoy, so please take the opportunity to visit.”
The church’s weekly community café is open every Saturday morning, from 10.30am until 12.30pm.
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