The Art and Environment Ministry: Elevating the Worship Experience for All Who Enter Our Church

It’s the little things at Immaculate Conception that can make a big difference — whether it’s a green ambo for Ordinary Time or a beautiful antependium in front of the altar. The average person attending Mass won’t see every detail, but they are impacted by the beautiful environment when they enter our church.

Art and Environment Ministry Leader Maureen Hogan has a knack for decorating, and she has an eye for the details — for instance, spotting a picture that’s tilted slightly on a wall. When she stepped in and volunteered to “fluff” a tree that was set up for Advent, she was asked to lead the Art and Environment Ministry. This was more than five years ago, and Maureen still enjoys this work.

It was around that same time Maureen also started as a sacristan. Working in these ministries has shown her the importance of using our gifts to serve the Lord. In particular, she found a strong example in one parishioner with woodworking skills who created a box in which to place the Cross for Lent. Another parishioner, Shirley Marsh, who has since passed away, was able to help cut open flower wraps, even with her limited mobility.

“People don’t think there is much they can offer,” Maureen says. “It doesn’t take a whole lot. If everyone does their part, like Shirley, the work gets done.”

Lent, Easter, Advent, and Christmas are major seasons for which the Art and Environment Ministry members decorate. Maureen’s sister, Mary Jane, often helps find volunteers after weekday morning Mass.

“People are almost always willing to help,” Maureen says. “They just want to be asked, and they are more than willing.”

Maureen says this ministry has helped her learn more about the liturgical seasons and the behind-thescenes work at the parish. She welcomes anyone, man or woman, young or old, to get involved.

This Lent and Easter are especially exciting for Maureen since churches were closed for part of last Lent, due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“I texted pictures of what it would have looked like to be in church to friends,” Maureen says. “I told them, ‘Look at this picture and pretend you are in a pew.’”

In the end, Maureen does all this to glorify the Lord and serve others. She wants everyone to have a beautiful experience when they enter Immaculate Conception, all year long.

If you would like to get involved in the Art and Environment Ministry, please contact Maureen Hogan at 440-479-8255 or Mghogan.ic@yahoo.com.

The Art and Environment Ministry members enjoy decorating Immaculate Conception for Easter.

The Art and Environment Ministry members enjoy decorating Immaculate Conception for Easter.