Posted on Sept. 24: Words of peace and roses among the stones

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Roses_Among_the_Stones_op2.jpg” caption=”Kanata Native Dance Theatre”]Candles representing the four corners of the world were lit and rose petals were strewn among the stones. And for a moment, there was silence.

Perhaps Nina de Villiers was present among the small group that gathered in the Nina de Villiers Garden at noon Wednesday. The garden of memory was named after the young McMaster student who was sexually assaulted and murdered.

The sixth annual Roses Among the Stones service for non-violence began with messages of peace and a “hoop dance” by the Kanata Native Dance Theatre on the steps of Gilmour Hall. Following this, students, administrators and faculty gathered in the garden for a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence.

“When we gather for this service each year, it's an opportunity for us to think more clearly about how we can make the McMaster community a safer community,” said ecumenical chaplain Carol Wood.

Added McMaster President Peter George, “We're here today because we believe that together we can build a better world  a world without violence where we are all free to extend a hand of friendship to those around us. Events like today's service give us the opportunity to pause and reflect upon the power of tolerance, respect and understanding. They remind us of the difference we all can make.”

Nina's mother, Priscilla de Villiers, also shared her thoughts on peace. “The garden was born out of violence, fear and misery, but it has proved to be a continuing symbol of peace and harmony.”

The garden ceremony is held annually for the Month Without Violence. McMaster's Anti-Violence Network is co-ordinating a number of activities to commemorate the Month Without Violence, which runs until mid-October.

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Photo caption: Top photo, A dancer from the Kanata Native Dance Theatre, performs a hoop dance' on the steps of Gilmour Hall. Below, roses are strewn among the stones during the annual garden ceremony. Photo credit: Chantall Van Raay