Church of the Holy Spirit, Sutton, MA
2025 Installation by Christina Laberge
An Advent frontal celebrating legacy, unity, and the unfolding story of the season.
An Interactive Advent Frontal
This installation was created for the Church of the Holy Spirit in Sutton, Massachusetts, commissioned in honor of a parishioner’s 100th birthday and to mark the merger of two congregations.
The design centers on the Jesse Tree, rendered in appliqué, with small hidden hooks that allow stars to be added throughout the weeks of Advent to create an interactive element that unfolds over the season.
Inspiration from the Building
The linework and shapes came from tracery on the floor and architecture, as seen in these photos.
I drew inspiration for the pink and rose couching from the window in the church (above).
The Installation
The Jesse Tree is depicted in appliqué, and boasts tiny, hidden hooks upon which stars may be added for each Sunday in a four or a seven-week Advent.
Silver and rose couching flows outward from the tree, bringing a sense of movement and abundance to the piece.
"Working with Christina was a delightful experience.
The Rev. Julie Carson
Vestments
The Paraments
Advent Flowers
Constructed in silk dupioni with appliqué, thread painting, hand couching, and machine-embroidered lace with Swarovski crystal stars, the work reflects both celebration and continuity within the life of the parish.
Bring Your Church’s Story to Life
Each installation begins with listening to your space, your traditions, and the rhythms of your worship.
Whether your church is shaped by light through stained glass, local landscape, or long-held symbolism, the work grows from what is already meaningful to your community.
The result is not just a set of textiles, but a cohesive visual language that supports worship and reflects the identity of your space.