Rural Barn helps Focus on Spiritual Art
Just 7 miles south east of Norwich is a centre for Arts and creative Christian spirituality, based in The Barn, a former old carriage house at Rockland St Mary Rectory, home of the former Burning Bush project. The Barn is a ministry run by Canon Nick Garrard and his wife Rev Helen Garrard.
At present the Barn fulfils several roles. It is a recording studio for services, an assembly line for children’s craft packs, and home to Art Café, which Nick explains, “This is a Wednesday morning online gathering where we contemplate a work of art or an artist and talk about all that intrigues and inspires us. We have conversations with artists, including the award-winning young Dutch artist Egbert Moddermann who joined us from Groeningen to share some of his paintings on Biblical themes.”
Nick’s role combines being Rector of six rural parishes (Rockland Benefice, part of the Bramerton Group) with Bishop’s Officer for Christian Spirituality through the Creative Arts. The arts ministry is based in The Barn, was developed and resourced by his predecessor, Revd Wendy Shaw and a committed core group, many of whom are still involved today from neighbouring villages and further afield.
“We trust The Barn will offer a creative space to explore their big questions. We look forward to times when people can return to the Barn for art events, quiet days, worship, coffee and cake,” said Nick, “We are launching groups with different interests soon, seeking to encourage creativity in many ways.”
Nick extends an invitation, “If you’d like to join us or receive our monthly Barn Owl round up of arts and spirituality events, my contact details are 01508 538014, email nickgarr39@aol.com or click https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/7440/get-in-touch/
Alpington and Yelverton 