Bronwen's Garden at West Van United
Bronwen Gouws, much-loved daughter of the Reverend John (emeritus) and Joan Gouws of the West Vancouver United Church, passed away after a brave fight against a wasting disease. Bronwen’s friends were determined to explore ways to honour Megan in a physical way. The result was “Bronwen’s Garden”, which was dedicated one recent sunny afternoon in October.


Accompanying photographs show Gerald van Wyck, Minister of Music, at the dedication service leading one of the several extraordinary choirs affiliated with this institution.

Also shown are Ralph’s son Nels, daughter-in-law Tanya, and two granddaughters Justine and Victoria (a.k.a. Mei Mei) visiting Megan’s garden just outside the entrance to the church, after a recent service.

Under the leadership of Rev. Don Collett and his spouse, Rev. Sandra Sever, West Vancouver United is particularly proud of its music program and its seniors care program otherwise known as “The Caring Ministry.”

The church organ, of custom North German and Dutch design, fascinates me. It was installed in the Sanctuary in 1998. It has 31 stops and 1851 pipes arranged in 36 ranks. The wooden pipes are made from tulip wood. The instrument weighs approximately eight tons. While I don’t know how this compares to any other organ, I can tell you the sound that comes out of it is magnificent.

A Sunday visit should be on every North Shore resident’s spiritual itinerary.
 

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