I live quite near to a churchyard which in the past has been typically used as a burial ground. Every time I walk by, a number of thoughts cross my mind. Firstly, Im struck by how quiet and peaceful this place actually is. Other thoughts include: the many different people that are buried here; the decayed bodies in the coffins; the amount of land taken up by graves and tombstones; the wildlife that now lives there; and if ghosts actually do exist?!! It is strange, but walking past a graveyard always stirs up many thoughts in my mind! I think I am fascinated with such places because I personally believe in cremation rather than burial.
This week is Cherishing Churchyards Week (19-28 June, 2009) and I wanted to write a bit about it as I can understand why there is a need for such causes. The use of churchyards as burial grounds for the deceased was discontinued between the 18th and 19th centuries and hence churchyards are full of history and it is important to preserve and maintain the heritage of such places.
Churchyards are regarded as special places by some for a number of reasons:
They often contain a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
They are important places for archaeology and history.
They often have distinctive and veteran trees.
The stonework and boundary walls provide a home for a mosaic of mosses, ferns and lichens.
They provide a tranquil place for quiet reflection.
They are a resource for community learning.
Churchyards are often within walking distance of local communities and can provide a focus for community involvement.
Many churchyards become the target of vandals which is completely disrespectful. It is a shame that more people do not appreciate the historical importance of such sites.
Whatever our beliefs on life and death are, we should at least respect the resting ground of our ancestors.