Volunteer of the week: Bev Bennett Old Rugged Cross Association
Published 9:40 am Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Bev Bennett, of Niles, is a volunteer of the Old Rugged Cross Memorial Garden in Pokagon. Bennett and other garden volunteers help to preserve the garden’s beauty and the area’s history, which is made legendary because the Rev. George Bennard’s hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross,” was sung at the church in 1913.
Bennett is the co-chair of the Old Rugged Cross Association and was one of the people who helped to initiate the garden starting in 1998. She has been a volunteer for the organization since then and helps to oversee the garden, plan fundraising and supervise volunteers.
A chili and soup supper will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at Pokagon United Methodist Church. The funds will help to support the garden.
How did you get involved with the Old Rugged Cross?
I belong to the Pokagon United Methodist Church, and the “Old Rugged Cross” was sung in the Old Rugged Cross Church, which is kitty corner to the Pokagon United Methodist Church. We decided we would like to make a garden to honor the Old Rugged Cross song that was sung there for the first time.
Bev Bennett
Why did you feel like the garden was important to the surrounding communities?
I figured that we had a real focal point there with the song being sung for the first time in its entirety at the old church and I figured it was a good part of history. I thought we should implement a garden where someone could come and enjoy the history that we had there in the village.
What is your favorite part about volunteering?
I am just thankful for all the people [who]have volunteered to help and to see lives being touched by visiting the garden and the old church.
Why would you encourage others to do volunteer work?
It is so rewarding to see lives changed by work that has been done.
Why would you encourage people to come and visit the garden?
It is a beautiful garden, and people are touched by the beauty of it. I think it’s because of the large house and it is an open area. It is peaceful. People can meditate there. We have music that plays as you walk the garden. In today’s world, we have so much turmoil that it just feels to me like a peaceful place.
How does it feel to know that you are helping to maintain history?
I am thankful for it. I think the Lord led us to do this and it has touched many lives. I feel we can be an example to the world of what peace is about.
