Welcome to the John XXIII Quilt

Welcome to the John XXIII Quilt

All are welcome to the Catholic experience and presence on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. East Tennessee is known for its beautiful handy works, especially quilt making. John XXIII is a beautiful quilt. Come and make a quilt with us.  The backing for this beautiful, East Tennessee quilt comes from the evangelical mission of the church spoken by Jesus, “Go and baptize, teach, and know that I am with you until the end of time.” (Mt.28:15)  Many of the parishioners who began this faith community are with us today and we are most grateful to them for their attention to the word and their sacrifices in building upon a solid foundation.  Throughout the decades, hundreds of people have visited or passed through John XXIII and the university. They have all left their own special patch, square, sliver, thread and handiwork.  John XXIII is whatever the people make it. At John XXIII, you are immersed in the Holy Spirit and the body of Christ. At the university and in the parish, you have opportunities to learn about the great things that can change and shape your world and your future. Sometimes life can become chilly, lonely, hurtful and unpleasant. That’s when you definitely need to wrap up in the quilt.  Over the years, the quilt has become very warm, cozy, attractive, and welcoming. It is a quilt that you can wrap yourself in and relax. It’s that type of quilt that you can instantly add the presence of your gifts, of music, art, perspective and service. It is a church community deeply rooted in the Church and the Word. The Church constantly looks for and invites new ministries and outreach to those who are not wrapped within the safe warmth of our quilt.  During your time at the university or your time in Knoxville, know that the John XXIII quilt is open to you. You may need its comforting feeling of home. You may need comfort, support and encouragement to help you through a difficult time in life. John XXIII may become your picnic in the park; a safe, fun place where you make lasting friends and memories. This time in your life may become the most formative period of your life. The inspired preaching, teaching, conversations, alone time in the chapel and friendships stitched into this quilt may be the threads of gold for your growth and development.   However, there is a cost. We need you. Your gifts and talents are necessary if our quilt is to become this warm and supportive place. Well-come! Be well with us and join us.  Come to the quilting bee where there is a place around the stand and all can add their patch, strip or square with whatever thread he or she chooses.

One day, our beautiful East Tennessee quilt will be folded up and presented to the Master Quilter.  On that day, the quilt becomes a mosaic, thousands of little tiles and chip of grace and personalities that glittered on the campus of the University of Tennessee with love, kindness, warmth, encouragement and East Tennessee welcome.

 

Invite others to experience the warmth of our quilt.

Ruth Queen Smith, Ed. D.

Pastoral Associate