A Visual Journey of Faith: Carrot Top Studio's PCUSA GA Commissioned Stoles
Since 2012, Carrot Top Studio has been honored to create the official stoles for the PCUSA General Assembly co-moderators. Each stole is a unique work of art, imbued with deep spiritual symbolism and thoughtful design reflecting the host city. The stoles serve as visual reminders of the profound journey we embark upon in the Church, especially during Ordinary Time, which the green hue symbolizes.
General Assembly was held several weeks ago in Salt Lake City, UT.
Rev. CeCe Armstrong and Rev. Tony Larson installed as co-moderators of the 226th GA.
PCUSA 226th GA Co-Moderator Stoles: Artist Statement
The stole designed for the 226th General Assembly co-moderators is a testament to the enduring symbols of our faith and the ever-present hope that guides us. Green, the color of Ordinary Time, serves as our canvas, a backdrop against which the vibrant imagery of hope unfolds.
At the top of the border design, the sun radiates its warmth, a metaphor for Jesus, the Son of God. His light guides our path, illuminating our lives even in the dimmest of days. Just as the sun casts away shadows, His presence dispels doubt and despair, offering clarity and direction.
Descending from the sun, the dove embodies the presence of the Holy Spirit. Its gentle wings remind us of the divine comfort and peace that descends upon us, whispering promises of renewal and transformation. The dove is a constant reminder of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives, bringing us solace and strength.
Interwoven amidst the garden on the stole are stalks of wheat, an age-old symbol of sustenance and provision, representing the Bread of Life. Just as wheat nourishes our bodies, the Lord provides for our spiritual needs, granting us daily bread and sustaining us through life's trials. The inclusion of wheat speaks to the Lord's unwavering provision and care.
It is within the garden that we truly grasp the essence of hope. Sprouting from the earth are vibrant blooms and leaves, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Like seeds planted in fertile soil, hope, joy, and peace flourish, reminding us that, even in times of difficulty, there is potential for growth and beauty.
The mountains that surround the host city of Salt Lake City, UT, echo the resilience of the human spirit, inviting us to rise above our challenges and ascend toward greater heights. The mountains stand as silent witnesses to our journey, encouraging us to strive for spiritual elevation and perseverance.
Past moderator stoles —
A Legacy of Crafting Symbols of Faith
Each year, Carrot Top Studio approaches the creation of the GA co-moderator stoles with reverence and creativity. The goal is to produce stoles that not only reflect the liturgical significance but also resonate with the personal and communal aspects of the co-moderators' ministry.
The stoles are designed to be worn during the assembly and throughout their term, serving as constant reminders of the themes of hope, resilience, and divine guidance.
The journey of crafting these stoles is a reflection of the larger journey we all undertake as part of the Church. It is a journey marked by faith, hope, and a commitment to spreading the light of Christ. Through the imagery and symbols embedded in each stole, we hope to inspire those who wear them and those who see them to remember the transformative power of hope and the enduring presence of God in our lives.
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