The Angel of Hope was officially dedicated to the St. Marys community on October 21, 2023, at Gethsemane Cemetery, located at the corner of Greenville Rd. and Ash Street in St. Marys, Ohio. The heartfelt ceremony was attended by parents, family members, friends, and community members who have experienced the loss of a child.

The dedication began with the Holy Rosary Ensemble performing “Come and Fill Our Hearts” as the Knights of Columbus Council 1592 led the speakers to the Angel of Hope monument. The Knights then unveiled the Angel of Hope to those gathered.

The event featured a welcome and opening prayer by Deacon Marty Brown of Holy Rosary Parish. Anna Sampson Katterhenry, Administrator, shared her and the anonymous donor’s inspiration behind creating the monument for the community. Pastor Timothy Benjamin from Wayne Street Church delivered a powerful sermon, reminding attendees that “the name of the space is no accident; we are truly celebrating the Angel of Hope because as believers, we are not here to simply grieve but to grieve with HOPE.”

Courtney and Jason Welch were honored guests, speaking on behalf of their three unborn children and representing all parents, family members, and friends who have endured the loss of a child. Following Courtney’s heartfelt message, attendees participated in a flower procession, placing white flowers at the base of the Angel of Hope while the choir sang, “The Lord is My Light.”

Father John Tonkin from St. Isidore the Farmer, Family of Parishes, offered a dedication prayer and blessing. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by Anna Katterhenry. The Knights of Columbus then led the closing procession as the Holy Rosary Ensemble sang “Softly and Tenderly.”