Symbolism comes full circle with diversity tree sculpture
I read with great interest today’s article about the 12-foot statue that has been designed for placement at the Clark Center by the 5 Cities Diversity Coalition (“New Arroyo Grande public art piece is rooted in diversity,” March 24).
It was our church’s cross that was stolen and used in the cross burning. Our wooden cross was 11 feet tall. That this statue is taller yet shows to me the power of the cross to deliver new beginnings and hope to all.
From a tree the cross was built, and from the cross comes the tree of reconciliation. Hatred overcome by sacrificial love. This is the message for all peoples.
How appropriate that this article was printed the day before Good Friday of Holy Week. Good Friday is all about the power of the cross.
On behalf of the ecumenical clergy and congregations of the Five Cities, I invite you to join us today, Friday, at 2:15 p.m. at Centennial Park in the Village for our cross processional through the Village and then to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church on Fair Oaks. Then at 3 p.m. at St. Pat’s, join for the deeply reflective Ecumenical Good Friday Service.
We clergy support the tree of peace for all. Well done, Mr. Jim Trask and students!
Randy Ouimette, pastor, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Arroyo Grande
This story was originally published March 24, 2016 at 8:27 PM with the headline "Symbolism comes full circle with diversity tree sculpture."