Several weeks after September 11th, the Board of ECVA gathered for its regularly scheduled fall meeting. Of utmost concern was how we should respond to the horrific events of that day. We decided on a show beginning in Lent which would exhibit artistic reflections on the devastating effects of fanaticism in New York City, Washington, D.C., and the countryside of Pennsylvania. We agreed that work should have been created since September 11th and should reflect directly on the events of that day or on how our lives have subsequently been changed. We decided to accept work from a wide variety of sources including Episcopal professional and amateur artists, Sunday schools and youth groups, prayer memorials, service bulletin graphics and other expressions showing the variety of faith responses to the tragedy. We further agreed to add newly submitted work to the show as we receive it during the duration of the exhibition. The journey of response will be a long one and the time for healing will continue far into the future.

The events of September 11th have left many of us in a state of shock and disbelief as we try to comprehend what occurred and to determine appropriate responses. The grief in New York City and Washington, D.C. in the immediate aftermath was enormous. In these cities and across the nation we saw the erection of makeshift shrines and the holding of prayer services commemorating the dead and seeking for peace. The photographs of missing persons were posted next to arrays of flowers, candles, banners, prayer cards, letters of sympathy, peace doves, religious symbols and stuffed toys. In different ways people attempted to reach out, to be supportive, to share. Everybody wanted to contribute something, to be part of the healing, to help, to love, to hope, to show courage. Out of the horror and fear, as we faced the reality of death in a way few of us had before, a remarkable sense of community developed as we recognized our interconnectedness. In our grief and loss and caring we were becoming family.

The current ECVA exhibition presents artistic responses to the events of September 11th. It is hoped that the images presented in this show will touch the lives of viewers, bringing about a sense of healing, understanding, and recognition. It is also hoped that others will be challenged and encouraged to find new ways to apply their faith in Christ Jesus towards reconciliation among peoples of different beliefs and cultures towards a more peaceful and united world.

Thomas Faulkner
Krystyna Sanderson

Enter Exhibition