by Larry Chen, Elder for Arts Ministries

Arts at Bethany is not necessarily about art with a capital “A.” Two of the things I love about how art is presented at Bethany is how there can be many artists involved in a themed project, and how all the art is genuinely “approachable.” No cordons keeping you twenty feet back or docents giving you that guilty-until-you-leave-stare here! We seek to tap the creativity inherent in everyone. So if you have something to show, or an idea to share, please let me know.

As a photographer, I sometimes find people are reluctant to show me their photos because they think they’re “not good enough.” Well look, I’m not on the Pulitzer committee and besides we do want to see your pictures because they help share your story. You know the adage about a picture being worth a thousand words. So share with us a few thousand words about how God is showing up in your life. And thanks for all the great stories displayed in the Ramp Room this year.

Of course , art isn’t just visual. “Thursday Nights in the Parlor” is a time to share whatever creative inspiration is on your heart, and it need not be original. It’s a monthly-ish meeting for poetry, performance, and pizza. Okay, the last one isn’t exactly art, but we do serve a pie or two.

This evening of art has been done before, and about twenty people resumed the tradition last month. Frankly, there were some stunning poems performed (to say they were “read” doesn’t do the authors justice) and a certain senior pastor shared a heartfelt poem about... facial hair. You had to be there. Next meeting: 2nd Thursday of January.

This Advent is the first time we’ve had a three-dimensional installation in the sanctuary. Abbie Berry was looking for something different this year when she learned of an interesting display at a retail store from Judy Marshall. One look and she was “enchanted.” Abbie explains: “We displayed the Star of David on each string to represent the coming King, and the mirrors and baubles were to catch the 'Light' and reflect it.

The Scripture for this is, “And Light came into the world, and darkness did not overcome it.” Jesus came to earth, and there were signs in the Heavens at His coming, and people came to worship Him.” A striking, worshipful installation, I hope you’ll agree. And a big thanks to the people who helped build and install the “light!”