One of the prized trees in our gardens is the beautiful magnolia tree between the church and the house (former rectory). The tree was planted in 1964 on the occasion of the 25th wedding anniversary of Margaret Kucsma and Bernard Gyure. The families of this couple were founders of St. Michael’s Byzantine Catholic Church which was built in 1926 (it closed in 2012 and today is the building operating as the Hildegard Haus). Family members still visit the grounds each spring to witness the majestic blooms on this gorgeous tree.

Magnolia is not an individual tree listed in Hildegard’s book, Physica, but she does say the following about trees in general: “Air has four powers: emitting dew, stirring up all greenness, moving the breeze which brings forth flowers… Terrestrial air moistens the earth, making trees and plants turn green and grow and move…” (17)

Being situated near the lake, we are blessed with vibrant air (wind)! Our gardens include many wind-chimes which transform the air into music, including one hanging from our magnolia tree!

In the spring, the pink blossoms of our magnolia tree are both messy and stunning. When it is in full bloom, it is truly breathtaking! In the summertime, it provides much needed shade for our outdoor liturgies! We have included a video, along with a few photos, allowing us to enjoy the beauty of this tree throughout the year!