Planting & Dedication of a Memorial Tree in St Nicholas Churchyard, Shaldon.
On a showery Thursday morning in the churchyard surrounding St Nicholas church, Shaldon, a tree was planted in joyful remembrance of Philip and Caroline Luff.
Together, Carol, our Vicar and Preb. John Good, a member of the family, performed a thoughtful and beautiful liturgy which honoured a couple who had served their Lord with grace and dignity in Teignmouth and in the wider Mission Community.
Joining the clergy were members of their immediate family, Caroline’s brother along with cousins both near and far.
As the tree was planted, John led us in the prayer:
Lord God, giver of all good gifts,
We thank you for the gift of this holy place,
for the soil here that nourishes,
the rain that falls and refreshes,
for sunlight that warms and sustains.
As we place this tree into the ground,
we pray it will grow strong and steadfast,
its roots deep in the earth,
its branches reaching towards the sky;
bringing beauty uinb every season of the year,
offering shelter to birds and insects,
enriching this place with its presence and life,
and a blessing for the air we brethe.
Let it be a sign of hope for generations to come.
Teach us to care for it as we care for one another,
to protect it from harm, and to remember that in planting,
we join in your work of renewal and llife.
Amen.