Jesus' power turns hearts on fire

Medicine Hat students' art backdrops Arts on Fire Mass

- Photo supplied Bishop Fred Henry accepts the gifts during the Arts on Fire Eucharistic celebration in Medicine Hat May 30.

Special to the WCR
Medicine Hat

God burns with love for all humanity," Calgary Bishop Fred Henry said. "And the Lord Jesus sets his disciples' hearts on fire."

Henry uttered these words as the chief celebrant at the Arts on Fire Eucharistic celebration featuring a display of the various artistic talents of students in Medicine Hat's nine Catholic schools.

More than 4,000 students, staff and parents gathered at the Medicine Hat Arena May 30 for the school district's division-wide Mass.

A three-metre high, 10-metre long mural composed of 200 student works of art provided a backdrop for the Mass. The student art resembled a huge wall of fire to illustrate the Mass' theme that the Lord Jesus sets his disciples' hearts on fire.

Banners, dancers

The Mass began with a procession featuring school banners, lighted candles and several dancers.

There was also a choir of 125 singers, a 20-member concert band and actors performing dramatizations.

The district's Fine Arts Council, chaired by Erika Bodnaruk, has been planning the event since September. It was billed as a celebration of the district's performing and visual arts programs, Catholic education, our faith journey together as well as our individual faith journeys.

(with files from the Medicine Hat News)

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