The Liturgical Arts Festival opens Saturday
ARTS | Grace Sweatt
Over the past 16 years, the Liturgical Arts Festival has become Springfield’s premier event for those interested in liturgical and sacred arts. Representing each of the three Abrahamic faiths (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) as well as Buddhism, Bha’i and Native American traditions, “Come, Creative Spirit” promises to be one of the most diverse festivals in event history.
Scott and Susan Day open the event 10 a.m. Saturday, May 5, at Westminster Presbyterian Church with an historical overview of textiles used in various faith traditions. In addition to learning about paraments, vestments and banners, attendees can gather ideas for creating a liturgical banner of their own.
Later in the day, the Springfield Art Association hosts a gallery opening and reception featuring a juried exhibit of more than 50 pieces of liturgical and sacred art. The opening is followed by a catered dinner at Edwards Place. Visual arts are featured again on Sunday at Temple B’rith Sholom’s exhibit of paintings of Jerusalem and Israel.
For those who enjoy musical arts, Sunday evening offers a special opportunity to hear the Capital Chamber Singers perform. The a cappella performance will be held in the inspiring Church of St. Francis of Assisi,
located on the grounds of the convent of the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis.
Vocalist/pianist Paula Irby and saxophonist Archer Logan will offer a program of Spirituals, Hymns and Gospel Music on Monday evening at St. John’s Lutheran Parish Life Center.
“Come, Creative Spirit” is topped off on Tuesday, May 8, with a full evening of events, all at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The evening begins with an exhibit of sacred and liturgical objects from different faith traditions. Representatives of each faith will be present to answer questions about the objects on display and to discuss their faith traditions. Following the exhibit, Maryam Mostoufi will read and interpret renowned Islamic poetry. Her reading is followed by a period for questions and shared reflection.
Following Mostoufi’s presentation, “The Universal Quest for the Divine: Common Prayer through the Arts” combines the “holy words” of many faith traditions with the musical traditions of African drumming, Native American flute and classical cello. The service is followed by a reception.
With the exception of the dinner at Edwards Place, all Liturgical Arts Festival events are free and open to the public. To make reservations for the dinner at Edwards Place ($25), contact ssnyder699@att.net. For more information on the Liturgical Arts Festival visit its website at www.LAFSpringfield.org.
Contact Grace at writtenbygrace@yahoo.com.
