‘This ‘Great (meaning large – 18’ x 30’) Dossal’ was a collaborative effort, involving more than 30 volunteers. Its Christo-sized dimensions complement the structure of the building while expressing the desire of the parish to be significantly involved with the outside world.  While the flame-like colors could be the colors of a New England autumn, they also hover above the heads of the worshippers, as on the day of Pentecost.

The vast majority of the cotton fabrics were donated - along with 340 hours of time during the spring of 2006 with the mounting of the Dossal taking place in June. Comments from participants focused on the process as one of getting to know people better, getting to share in ‘God’s work’, building up the community of the faithful. 

The design reflects the pattern of the floor slates in the contemporary church and loosely represents the ‘view’ if the back wall of the chancel weren’t there - the park, the lake, the mountains and a beautiful summer sky just approaching sunset.  The effect is of impressionism, writ large, and the desire to engage all of Creation.

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
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