For the first time the Archdiocese of Birmingham is to host a unique festival celebrating the Word of God, and we want everyone to be a part of it.
FLORILEGIUM: A festival of Scripture, Art and Flowers will be held at Carrs Lane Centre and St Michael’s Catholic Church, which are next door to each other in the city centre, between Thursday 23 and Saturday 25 September.
The word Florilegium means a compilation of excerpts from other writings, from the Latin literally meaning a gathering of flowers, or collection of fine extracts from the body of a larger work, and so provides the perfect name for this year’s very special event.
An annual Flower Festival is normally held at St Chad’s Cathedral in June, but this has not been possible for the last two years due to Covid-19.
Instead this year’s event has developed into something much bigger as it incorporates the God Who Speaks national Scripture campaign, led by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales and Bible Society.
Over three days FLORILEGIUM: A festival of Scripture, Art and Flowers will be open to the public.
Highlights will include free Scripture resources; a flower trail between the two venues; artwork; workshops; school visits, a lecture and Q&A session; a choral concert by the well-known choir of St Mary’s Church, Moseley and celebrations of Mass.
A ‘developing flower display’ in the form of a ‘Tree of Life’ will be a key feature, commemorating all those who have died of Covid-19 across the Archdiocese. Visitors will be able to choose a leaf on which to write the name of a loved one, followed by a short prayer, to place on the tree.
Flower displays by schools and churches will be on display drawing inspiration from the autumn season, preparation for COP26 and climate action.
To make this Festival a great success we need volunteers! Budding flower arrangers, stewards, and people to help with refreshments, are all needed.
If you are able to help please contact Anne Symonds on annets103@hotmail.co.uk
Full details of the Festival programme will be released in due course.