Feathers from Heaven provides white dove releases for many of our memorial services. We asked Joe and Leslie Irwin, owners, to share a bit about their history and their feelings about the garden.

In 1998, when medical problems forced Joe to retire from his San Diego law practice of 23 years, he decided to develop a business and ministry based on a personal love: raising and racing homing pigeons.  Feathers from Heaven was born and today, with the help of his wife Leslie, and friend and associate Steve Svetak, Joe specializes in providing flights of doves at weddings, funerals, and graveside internments.

 Joe was first introduced to Garden of Innocence several years ago and immediately felt a connection to the mission.  Joe says, "The Lord has given me an understanding of the pain of loss for which I would never have wished."  His daughter, Josette, drowned at 23 and his son, Joseph Jr., died tragically this last November. 

He continues, "Through the loss of my children, and the additional loss of my mom, dad and Leslie's parents--all within the last few years--I've felt the pain of loss while at the same time increasing my faith that a loved one is not 'lost' but is with their Father in heaven."

Struck with the importance and value of the garden and of the dedication of those who persevere in this mission, Joe adds, "These precious little ones... most abandoned... some in unspeakable circumstance... are treasured, dignified and recognized as created by God.  We help because each child coming into the Garden of Innocence is entitled to a sad, and at the same time, joyous celebration of its short life.

Last month we shared our need for paper and ink cartridges.  We received a nice supply of premium laser paper and color ink, as well as multi-purpose paper and black ink for our printers and copier.  Several others offered monetary donations so we could buy additional supplies.