Greetings from Pastor Elisabeth,
The arts play an important role at Trinity United Church of Christ. Many of our beautiful banners were created by Marilyn Robberts, a former church member who passed in 2010. Fred Robberts, current church member and retired art teacher, also created art along with his wife, Marilyn.
In August, you will see Marilyn’s handiwork in two banners hung at the front of church in the chancel area. They are two of a set of four banners created for our current liturgical season called “Trinity” or “Ordinary Time.” As the longest church season, it begins with Trinity Sunday and extends to Advent. In this season, believers focus on growing their life of discipleship, in Christ.
The first banner is entitled “Creation.” This banner reminds us that small beginnings spark great things!
This banner shows seeds planted in rows, seeds beginning to sprout, and seedlings with
small leaves and roots taking hold. Some plants are blooming. The morning sun is shining . . .
The second banner is entitled “Grace.” Images in this banner
“show what mother nature provides . . . bright sunlight, gentle rain, rich soil, pollinating bees &butterflies; earthworms to keep the soil loose & fertile; ladybugs which help eliminate destructive insects. The rainbow symbolizes God’s promises: we can rely on God’s gifts.
How fitting that Marilyn drew upon themes of nature! Our spiritual growth is indeed like tending a garden. When we cultivate a deeper spiritual life, we become more and more rooted in faith and spirit-filled discipleship.
Finally—just as God supplies the sunshine, the soil, and the rain—the Holy Spirit works within us and among us creating a beautiful garden.
Wishing You God’s Peace, ~Pastor Elisabeth
Italics: excerpts from a written description of the four Trinity banners written by Marilyn Robberts