‘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