Tapestries
At the time our chapel was renovated, eight tapestries were created to enhance the atmosphere during the various Liturgical seasons. They were designed by Sisters Barbara Chenicek, OP, and Rita Schiltz, OP, Dominican Sisters from INAI Studios in Adrian, Michigan. While the Sisters created the art of the tapestries, we did all the sewing and construction work.
We invited any interested members of our worshiping community to attend a tapestry workshop during which the tapestries were shown for the first time. We decided on groups of 6-8 Sisters and friends, and drew straws to determine who would work on each piece. We proceeded to learn the sewing stitches and then, in their homes or at the monastery, each group worked on their tapestry during the six or so months as the Chapel reconstruction proceeded. During the first year the renovated Chapel was open, as each new Liturgical season began, the group that had worked on the tapestry for that season was invited to come and bring it into the Chapel for the first time.
Each tapestry is inspired by a scriptural quotation.
Advent
“On those who live in a land of deep shadow, light has shown.” Isaiah 9:1
The lower part of the tapestry is shaded deep greys and grows lighter as your eye follows it upward. As Advent progresses, we reach toward the Light of Christ, who comes as the light of the world.
Christmas
“Shout for joy, Daughter Zion! The Holy One is in your midst.” Zephaniah 3:14-15
This tapestry is created from the brightly colored shawls of Middle-Eastern women. The effect is that of Mary’s shawl wrapping around the world that Jesus came to save and set free.
Ordinary Time - Winter
“And leaving their nets, they followed him.” Mark 1:18
As we begin the cycle of Ordinary time, the readings of the lectionary lead us to reflect on the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry. The tapestry reflects the hills of Galilee and our call to follow Jesus wherever he leads.
Lent
“From violence you rescue me.” Psalm 18:3
The violence of the passion is reflected in the dark purples and blacks of this tapestry, as well as in its construction and weight.
Easter
“I am the Resurrection.” John 11:25
Pure joy and glory shine from this tapestry, as though no words are possible to convey they mystery. One’s eye is drawn to the many shades and patterns of white, reflecting the myriad facets of the wonder of resurrection.
Pentecost
“I will give you a new heart, and place a new Spirit within you.” Ezechiel 36:27
In the rich golds, reds and oranges of fire, a great flame of God blown by the Spirit is created. We too, are to catch the fire of the Spirit, and with a new heart of love, offer this Spirit of Jesus to others.
Ordinary Time - Summer
“The words that I have spoken to you are Spirit and they are life.” John 6:63
The green of summer and of fruitfulness remind us to live in accord with the great mysteries we celebrated at Easter. We have received the Spirit, we have been given the Word – now we are challenged to be fruitful.
Ordinary Time - Fall
“This is what Yahweh asks of you: only this, to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
The earthy browns of autumn and of the Cross remind us to walk humbly on the earth. The days are growing shorter, the nights longer. The leaves are turning. We don’t know how much time remains for serving God. What matters is that we live justly, tenderly, and humbly.