Ecclesiastical textiles guided by a master artisan and created by parish hands – such was the vision brought to fruition for the sanctuary of St. Anne’s.
Yearning for the ancient art of needlepoint predates the kneelers and seat cushions contributing to worship today. Paintings for kneelers in the original Little St. Anne’s and saved for decades helped to inform the designs brought to life for the sanctuary.
Considering their stitching would become a spiritual practice, a dozen or so parishioners attended classes held at the church with master needlepointers, practiced their new skills creating Christmas ornaments and small crosses, submitted their samples to the expert teachers, and finally qualified to receive a canvas to stitch.
While they prepared, another team of church members researched and interviewed experienced ecclesiastical needlepoint artists, raised extensive funds, and photographed sanctuary cushions, carpets and architectural features.
Ultimately, a lovely relationship blossomed with an artisan who is also the needlepoint specialist for the Washington National Cathedral.
One by one, year by year, the kneelers and cushions entered the sanctuary to receive a blessing, and to offer blessings to worshipers for centuries to come.
