Buildings & Grounds

Acts as wise stewards of the physical property that the Lord has entrusted to our care.

• Routine and Seasonal Maintenance Oversight • Capital Project Recommendations • Contract Negotiation for Utilities and Physical Plant Care • Work Parties

Building and Grounds Maintenance

2009-2010 Work

The blue stone walk in front of the church and the steps to Merrill Hall were replaced. The foundation of the bulkhead to the Folsom House was rebuilt in order to prevent incursion of rainwater into the cellar. New gutters were installed on the Folsom House.

A committee redecorated and refurbished the church parlor, the Hudson Room. Thanks to an anonymous gift, a new sofa, a love seat, and chairs were purchased. Parishioners also donated lamps and drapes, while others painted the walls and trim.

Volunteers conduct cleanups for the church grounds each Fall and Spring.

Memorial Garden

The Memorial Garden of Grace Church is located on the church grounds on the north side of the sanctuary and lies under a canopy of old maple trees. A granite Celtic cross is the centerpiece of the garden.

The Grace Memorial Garden is for the interment of ashes in certain consecrated areas. The guiding concept of the garden is to provide a simple, dignified memorial for loved ones placed to rest there, and to afford a quiet, secluded environment for family and friends, conducive to reflection, meditation, and prayer.

Who May Use the Garden

Interment is available to parishioners and their families. All other interments are at the discretion of the Rector.

Memorial Garden Plaque

Name plates showing only the deceased's name and year of birth and death may be added to the Memorial Plaque, which is mounted on a granite stone set in the garden. The name plates shall be identical in size and shape and may contain no other information.

Memorial Gifts

Memorial gifts are graciously accepted by the Church.

Guidelines and Restrictions

Burials

Ashes must be interred loosely in a designated hole in the ground, with no container.

Restrictions

Placement of trees, shrubs, and other plant materials are the exclusive responsibility of the Memorial Garden Committee.
Cut flowers, potted plants, or other arrangements are not permitted in the garden.
Individual plot markers are prohibited.
Ashes may not be sprinkled in the Memorial Garden.

Administration

Administration of the Memorial Garden is the responsibility of the Memorial Garden Committee, as appointed and/or elected by the Church.

For more information regarding the Memorial Garden, contact the church office at 860.388.0895.

Building Use by Non-Profit Organizations

Grace Episcopal Church has a long history of sharing its facilities with community groups and is delighted to have non-profit groups meet here. The building and land belonging to the Church, along with its equipment, represent a considerable investment of labor, time and money from present and past members of the parish.

All of the property, facilities and equipment are set aside to the glory of God and His worship, education and service in the Christian faith. It is the desire of the parish that this investment in land, buildings and equipment be used in ways that are consistent with the church’s mission: “sharing the healing love of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit.”

For a detailed description of the terms of the building use policy and a copy of a contract for use, please click here: "Building Use Contract."

| | Share