Aurora Methodists sculpt clay for improved relationships

At Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora Aug. 27, more than 100 congregants became volunteer sculptors to learn about improving relationships.

During the 9 and 11 a.m. services, congregants were invited to mold small leaves from stoneware clay balls.

Worshippers then placed their leaves on one of four clay "vines" sculpted in advance by members of the church's worship committee.

Aurora resident and church member Emmy Lou John said, "Placing clay leaves on the vines reflects how we are formed and tied together with Jesus the vine."

She said the vine sculptures will be air dried and kiln-fired before a finish is applied. Plans call for the completed sculptures to be framed and displayed on church walls.

The clay-molding exercise was designed to tie in with "Formed," the first installment of Pastor John Bell's six-week fall sermon series titled "The Tie that Binds." It was followed by "Woven" Sept. 3.

Future sermon topics scheduled are "Poured" on Sept. 10; "Lifted" on Sept. 17; "Moved" on Sept. 24; and "Anointed" on Oct. 1.

"The potter and clay are great metaphors for how we are created and transformed by God," John said.

Rev. Bell added, "As we worship in this series, we will consider how our relationships with the Holy and with each other form and transform us."

Call (630) 896-1033 for more information.