It was with great joy that a monument honoring the inspiration and work of the sisters of the Dutch Region was unveiled in October 2025. It is not a statue or a wall of names, but an outdoor space from which you can overlook the entire cemetery. We have named it the “Court of Remembrance.” We are very happy with it. Sr. Evifania unveiled the stone at the entrance to the Court. Afterwards, sisters and guests were able to enter the Court for the first time.

In the Court of Remembrance, visitors can read on four panels about Mother M. Clara Pfänder, the Dutch Province, our mission to Indonesia and the worldwide congregation, and finally about St. Francis of Assisi. Now it is still autumn and all the plants are small and bare, but in spring the wisteria will grow and form a canopy under which you can sit and daydream, looking out over the graves of the deceased sisters. The wisteria will bloom over a pergola resting on two Corten steel trees full of birds. This is a reference to Saint Francis preaching to the birds. The bench that Sister Auxiline and Sister Simone received when they stepped down as superior and assistant superior is sure to become a favorite spot during a walk through the garden and cemetery.

The creator of this courtyard is Mr. Zeger Woudenberg, who was guided by the genius loci, the soul of the place. You notice that when you stand in the courtyard. Next to the statue of the Madonna and Child, overlooking the graves of all those who have gone before, you can also see the Calvary group at the other end of the cemetery. That whole journey from birth to death and beyond, reveals itself. Our new Court of Remembrance gives space for reflection and gratitude.

Written by Mirjam Wolthuis