Mae Runions

Two Sanctuary Hangings

Trinity Pacific Church, Richmond B.C., 2013

This church is located near the mighty Fraser River, on the exteme south end of #5 Road, (termed the ‘Highway to Heaven Road’ because of so many places of worship on this road.) The property is large and includes space for a community garden. The congregation had recently renovated their building and wanted to include art. Through members Jan Lermitte and Evelyn Kober the church was very involved in giving me ideas for imagery from their environment. We also spoke about Jesus and the gospel of His grace and their desire to share this.

The Tree and the River (left)

The ‘tree and the river’ is a beautiful recurring Biblical image. (Psalm 1:3; Ez 31:7; Rev 22:1,2; Ez: 47:6,7,12; Jer 17:7,8 ; Ps 104:14-18.) The river provides nourishment and purpose for the tree; the tree reflects the glory and vitality of the river. The relationship of God and the church can be seen here. This symbiotic relationship reflects the wisdom statement that ‘…without God, we cannot…without us, God will not….’ The ship on the river is an ancient symbol of the church. Personal reflection on the many images and colors moves me to sense the priviledge and responsibility of belonging personnally and collectively somewhere in it all.

The Church in the Garden (right)

The Scripture text for the hanging is taken from Galations 5:22,23: ‘The fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-control’. By giving the church a setting of a fruitful garden, the congregation provided a beautiful metaphor for visualizing the Life of the Spirit being nurtured and grown amongst a gathered community. Again the opportunity for individual as well as corporate reflection is stimulated.