Christ Church Episcopal, Christmas, Quincy, MA
“The Holly Bears the Crown”
A 2023 Christmas installation in luminous gold and light.
A Memorial Commission
Designed as a memorial gift, this Christmas set of paraments and vestments brings warmth and radiance to the chancel during the season of Christmastide.
Created in ivory and gold silk, the work fills the space with a soft, reflective light—both celebratory and reverent.
The Holly Bears the Crown
The design draws on traditional Christmas symbolism, with the central cross recalling the Bethlehem Star. Hand-embroidered details and layered textures create a sense of quiet richness, inviting reflection within the liturgical space.
The Installation
The installation brings together frontal, markers, and vestments in a cohesive visual language. All elements are grounded in tradition and shaped by the rhythms of the Christmas season.
A Continuing Work
In 2025, the work expanded with the creation of a new set of vestments for the Rev. Canon Kelly O’Connell.
Designed within the same theme and color palette, these pieces extend the original installation into a more expressive celebration of Christmastide.
Original artwork forms the basis of the Christmas Star design, while goldwork and Swarovski crystal embellishments bring a heightened sense of light and festivity to the garments.
Every Church Has Its Own Story
Each installation begins with listening to your space, your traditions, and the meaning carried through the liturgical year.
For many communities, the work continues to grow over time, building on existing pieces to create a cohesive and evolving visual language.
The result is a body of work that reflects both tradition and the life of your community.