Contemplative Garden at Spalding University

The Contemplative Garden at Spalding University serves as a tangible representation of the interfaith understanding and cooperation that was fostered by the meeting of Thomas Merton of Gethsemane Abbey and the Dalai Lama of Tibet. The garden, featuring a traditional Buddhist stupa and a Catholic meditation labyrinth based on the design at Notre Dame Chartres, serves as a place for reflection, meditation, and connection to the deeper spiritual aspects of oneself and the world around. 

The third feature is Cathedral Cross designed by Louisville architects Henry Whitestone and Isaiah Rogers, the Cathedral of the Assumption’s steeple and spire was completed in 1858, replacing an earlier version damaged by fire. At the time of its construction, the Cathedral’s 287-foot spire was the tallest in North America. The copper cross featured here in this Contemplative Garden is one of four that adorned the Cathedral’s steeple corners. As part of a multi-year restoration of the historic cathedral, and spearheaded by the Cathedral Heritage Foundation, a complete re-fabrication of the Cathedral’s spire and steeple’s copper decorative elements were completed in 1998.

The garden serves as a living legacy of the meeting between Merton and the Dalai Lama and serves as an inspiration for the continued promotion of interfaith understanding and cooperation. It serves as a space for people of all backgrounds and religions to come together to learn, grow and promote interfaith community relationships. 

We are seeking your support to help us complete the landscaping of our tranquil meditation garden, as well as purchase benches and signage, providing a serene and inviting space for our community to find peace and solace.