The colors of spring filled Livingston Seventh-day Adventist church in Western Australia in an event that connected the church with the community.
The church hosted its sixth Bible in Bloom flower festival from September 30 through October 2, with the theme of this year’s event being “Messages of Hope.” A total of 19 arrangements were on display—the most ever—with each one depicting an encouraging message of hope on which the viewer could reflect.
Starting in 2007, Bible in Bloom has run every three years since then. Many of this year’s participants have been involved in the event in previous years and look forward to the festival with keen anticipation. Others were first-timers, but every person involved was motivated by a desire to bring glory to God and encouragement to others through their arrangements.
“Our designers often testify to the blessing they receive by reflecting deeply on the Bible verse they have chosen and how they can best depict it,” said Linley Vogel, festival organizer.
Visitors are given the opportunity to show their appreciation for Bible in Bloom by donating to a charity. This year’s beneficiary was the Light of Hope School in Cambodia, and more than AU$2,000 (approx. US$1,260) was raised towards their work with underprivileged children.
A short dedicatory service was held on Friday evening, September 30, with a group of about 30 family and friends. David Hughes, representing Light of Hope, shared the stories of children whose lives had been impacted by the school, and Livington associate pastor, Megan Hunter, offered a dedicatory prayer. The event was then open to the public.
On Sabbath morning, with floral interpretations of Bible verses depicting messages of hope all around the church auditorium, Hunter preached on the topic “Hope Lasts Forever.”
The flower festival was again open to the public on Sabbath and Sunday afternoons, with Light of Hope running a café in the church hall. Many church members took the opportunity to invite their friends, neighbors, and work colleagues to view the stunning floral arrangements and then relax in the café afterwards—an extremely simple way to share their faith.
The original article was published on the Adventist Record website.