PAWTUCKET – Representatives from the Assumption of Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church say someone entered church grounds and dug up and carried off an azalea bush that had been planted in memory of a loved one.
“It is with great sadness and disappointment that we share that one of the newly planted azalea bushes on our church grounds was stolen. This azalea was lovingly donated by a parishioner in memory of a recently departed family member and held deep sentimental meaning for their family,” they said in a statement. “The bush was not simply picked or damaged – it was literally dug up and removed from the property. Acts like this are heartbreaking, especially when they involve memorial donations made with love and faith.”
The church’s memorial trees and bushes at their Walcott Street property are a work in progress, they said, with each one donated by parishioners in honor or memory of loved ones.
“It is truly a shame that acts like this occur when so many people are trying to beautify the church grounds and create a peaceful space of remembrance for our community. Our church grounds are meant to be a respectful place,” they said. “If anyone has any information regarding this incident, or if you may unknowingly have possession of this azalea, we kindly ask that it be returned to the church. We simply want to restore this meaningful memorial to its rightful place. Please do the right thing and help us preserve the respect and dignity of our church community. Thank you for your understanding.”
