Summer Solstice Celebration in the St. Francis Sculpture Garden
June 20, 2025 at 6:30pm
St. Francis Sculpture Garden
2023 Fulton St. E., Grand Rapids, MI
(next to Dominican Sisters Marywood)
The word “solstice” derives from the Latin solstitium, which comes from the parts sol “sun,” and sistere, “to stand still.” During the June solstice the sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky, and for a brief period of time the sun’s path does not change. The summer solstice is the astronomical beginning of summer and is the day with the most daylight in the year.
The fourth annual St. Francis Sculpture Garden’s Summer Solstice Celebration will take place on Friday, June 20 at 6:30 pm. This celebratory evening will begin with a prayer of welcome and acknowledgment of the land. We will learn a little history and of the relationship between St. Francis and St. Dominic.
The sounds of creation will be accompanied by live music set to serenade the community as we usher in an evening of peace, presence and celebrate the light of the sun.
This event is free and open to the public. Feel free to bring a chair.
Facilitators
Cassandra Kroondyk, Dominican Associate and Violinist will serenade us for the solstice blessing.
Sr. Kathi Sleziak, OP from the Dominican Sisters’ Leadership Team will lead our gathering with a Dominican Blessing.
St. Francis Sculpture Garden
Find contemplative peace and healing in our free outdoor nature trail. The garden pathway illustrates the life of our beloved St. Francis of Assisi in 17 bronze statues throughout 6 acres of natural beauty. The pathway is ADA-wheelchair accessible. Although inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, we are non-denominational, and respectful of all peoples of peace, love, and kindness.
