The Joy of Arranging to the Glory of God

JEANETTE MCKITTRICK
Simply put, the Flower Guild celebrates the beauty of creation in service of worship. Through arrangements for the altar, chancel, and sacred spaces, we mark the liturgical year through the rhythms of the seasons, from the hopeful greens of Advent to the joyful lilies of Easter, and we honor the Incarnation, in which God takes on the stuff of the created world. Our work is an offering of gratitude, time, and skill—and it’s a ministry of hospitality, comfort, and remembrance. Most of all, it’s a joyful ministry, and a privilege, to join our church family in celebrating the sacraments and rites of their lives in the church.

It’s also a busy ministry. Just in time for Thanksgiving and Advent, we’re excited to welcome two delightful designers, most recently of Shrinemont fame, Nancy Hugo and Kate Binns, to conduct a workshop at St. James’s, Arranging for the Joy of It. It’s an all-day celebration of God’s garden and a fun approach to sparking your own creativity, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned designer.

Registration is open now for the workshop on Friday, November 20, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, in Valentine Hall. We provide instruction, abundant flowers, containers and mechanics, refreshments, and lunch. You provide your snips, a bucket of greens, dried or other natural materials, and your enthusiasm. You’ll take home your arrangements and inspiration for more! The cost is $250 per person, and you can register below.

Founded by Loretta Miller nine years ago, and soon after joined by co-chair Jeanette McKittrick, the Flower Guild is a separate ministry from the Altar Guild, although the organizations work closely together, and some people serve on both. If you’re interested in learning more about the Flower Guild, please contact one of us, and do consider signing up for our upcoming November workshop, Arranging for the Joy of It.