A creative arts gathering featuring local artists will be held next week to encourage peace throughout the community.
Blessed are the Peacemakers, hosted by Williamsburg Christian Church, is scheduled from 6-9 p.m. on May 10 “to witness the images and tales that illustrate how we are grappling with making peace in our lives,” said Jessie Reid, a member of WCC and organizer of the event.
The annual creative gathering held by the church has addressed issues such as gun violence, racism and mental health. It was put on hold after the pandemic but is returning this year with a focus on peacemaking.
“The heart behind the event is that peacemaking is different from peacekeeping,” said the Rev. Fred Liggin, one of the church pastors and founder and co-executive director of Faith Community Development & Training with 3e Restoration Inc. “Peacekeeping is easy. It costs nothing. It requires only a head nod, keeping one’s mouth shut, preserving the status quo, flexible knees, propped-up feet, and a heart unwilling to change. But peacemaking is costly. It requires deep thought, innovation, and creativity within the community, an open mouth, steady knees, ready feet, and a heart willing to change and forgive.”
The deadline for community art submissions is today. To submit art or creative expressions for the exhibit and evening event, visit form.jotform.com/240864028106149. Art must promote the theme of peacemaking.
All artwork will be on display during an open house gallery and evening of creative expression from 5:30-9 p.m. The event will include performances and community discussion, as well as a conversation and artwork by Steve Prince, the director of engagement and distinguished artist in residence at the Muscarelle Museum of Art.
The event “aims to lift up that creative voice that sings of struggle, hardship and resilience in a community and world fraught with fear,” Reid said. Everyone is invited to attend.
Attendance is free, but registration is requested at eventbrite.com/e/blessed-are-the-peacemakers-tickets-894437375267. Williamsburg Christian Church is located at 200 John Tyler Lane.
Kim O’Brien Root, kimberly.root@virginiamedia.com
