Creativity and Art at FPC
We have a new painting displayed in the hallway, outside of Fellowship Hall. It was a gift from artist Kevin Walton. I really like it, because of the verse that it illustrates and the uniqueness of painting a view from our own East Cemetery, the place where we celebrate resurrection each Easter at sunrise.
One of the things that I have thought about over the years is the creative nature of our God. He created the world through a word. He spoke into existence more unique habitats and creatures and the intricate details of the human body and mind than have yet discovered. He is a creator God. And
as people made in his image, we too are endowed with creativity.
Back in my days leading a school focused on early childhood, we would annually have a fall show (visual art) and spring show (singing, motions). Often a teacher would say something to me like, “I’m just not very creative” and I’d feel a strong sense of objecting to that sentiment. Our God gave us the ability to create something from nothing. It takes some courage and practice, but each child and adult can (and should) engage in creative pursuits because we are made in the image of a creator God.
One of my hopes for FPC is that you will continue to evolve in your creative expressions of the Gospel. This community has many artists – painters, carpenters, musicians, artisans. Often we think of the
gifts needed in the church as apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers. But truly the church needs all of the endless possible giftings – organization, leadership, craftsmanship, graphic
design, tech, hospitality, and so many more.
We are called to offer our gifts for God’s service and to encourage others to offer theirs. This brings glory to God and inspiration to his people. This year at the ECO National Gathering, the worship & arts
ministry strand is offering a breakout called “Beauty in Community – How Art Builds Disciples.” Beth Miller is excited to attend that breakout, looking for new ways for creativity at FPC to become worship. Beth is passionate about how artisans worked within the church at different points in
history, and how the arts can connect us to God in ways traditional worship does not. It is time that the church reclaim her prophetic voice through artistic expression.
How wonderful it would be if the new painting sparked more, so much so that there became a rotation of visual art within our walls, proclaiming the glory of God and displaying the gifts of many in our community, and offering inspiration to the wider Fredericksburg population. A growing element of the arts within our church would be such a good thing!
With Creativity and Joy,
Pastor Nancy
