‘God numbers the stars and calls them all by
name.’ We are part of a huge continuum – the Great
Cloud of Witnesses – the Saints of God. This work names more
than 1000 of them and places those names in great swirling strands,
stretching through the cosmos.
It is intended that the viewer,
approaching the altar, will feel embraced by the work and included
in the Great Multitude. The Creation is a work-in-progress. Each
time we welcome new ‘stars’ into the Community, we participate
in that creation. Whenever we pray for those who are separated
from us, by death or distance or circumstance, we string the stars
of the heavens together in endless strands, through time and space. This
dossal and frontal are an attempt to say to those we love that they
are as eternal as the stars.
The Great Dossal for All-Saints (10’ x 21’) includes
many types of fabrics, fused to muslin backing. Names were added
using squeeze-on fabric paints in several metallic colors. Members
of the Community were asked to supply lists of ‘saints’ – from
history, people they loved, etc. Little slips of paper came with
a few or many. All were included. Many spoke of the importance to
them of seeing those names when they come forward to receive the
Bread and Wine of the Eucharist – as if they are sharing the
moment with loved-ones. One person even said that this dossal
is what convinced her to resume attending church after a long absence.
During the construction of this dossal (in
the church basement), many folks dropped by to see the progress.
Before the two vertical halves were joined, visitors were invited
to walk between them; each experienced a spiritual ‘connection’ to the Great Multitude – often
unexpected, but always remarkable.
This parish finds this dossal so meaningful
that they keep it in place from All Saints until Advent, creating
an All-Saints’ Season.
Judith McManis has been creating Liturgical art for more than thirty-five
years. Beginning in 1971, she has created striking and unusual
designs for stained-glass, banners, altar hangings & appointments
and vestments.
A native of Iowa, Ms. McManis was educated in public schools before earning a
BFA from Drake University in 1965. While at Drake she was an active member of
Delta Phi Delta, honor art fraternity and upon graduation, began graduate studies
there.
Upon retirement she relocated to Burlington, VT, setting up a Liturgical Art
Studio there. To her great joy, she has been designing and making liturgical
pieces for a wide variety of churches and individuals ever since! In the
spring of 2007 she helped organize the VT chapter of ECVA beginning with an inaugural
exhibit at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, where she is a member.
Community: Cathedral
Church of St. Paul, Burlington, VT
Email: laudata@verizon.net
Website: www.laudata.com |