Don Dowling's Blog

Don's Blog

Hi all.

What an amazing opening night. So many people, such a good atmosphere and a wonderful opening speech by Rev Tom Wilson. I have had so many great comments from those who attended, in particular the artists.
It has been wonderful going down to the church every day and sitting with the volunteers and from time to time showing people around the artworks. I have enjoyed immensely the sharing with individuals and groups and engaging in conversations around the themes and interpretations of the Stations. The comments book has been used extensively, and I am yet to see a negative comment. “Stunning, moving, a new interpretation”, and many other positive comments have added to the feeling that this is a good exhibition.
One interesting comment from a member of the congregation – ‘why can’t we do something like this all the time?’
This is a good and thoughtful question that makes me wonder how we can continue telling and witnessing to the story in the same powerful, imaginative way. How can we share in conversation and connection with those who flow by and come into our church? We managed to do something at Advent/Christmas and now at Easter, and now we need to wonder how we can do something more continuously. At this point in time, all suggestions greatly received
Another comment I have heard quite strongly during the week is how wonderful the church space looks. “It is a welcoming warm space”, “it lends itself to being flexible for worship and other events” I am finding it hard to ignore these comments.
Let me conclude by sharing the poem I wrote and shared with the congregation on Sunday. Titled “I Sit”

I sit,
A church,
Art all around,
The journey to the Cross
Painful, overwhelming, gutsy
Artist’s souls in these works
Their gift creating a blessing for us.

I sit
Voices, Conversations,
People sharing their journey,
Listening, hearing,
Lives touching lives.

I sit
I wonder at this journey
Struggle, hardship, pain and yet…
In the watching, in the gift, in the conversations
I see life…
And life out of death is good.

Thanks for Reading.
Don