For a weekend in mid-February, Hartlepool’s Knitted Bible took up residence at St Anne’s, Dunbar, communicating Bible stories in a totally new way, and charming and delighting visitors.
Around 450 people attended the Knitted Bible festival from 15–17 February, taking part in activities from Knit and Natter to a children’s storytelling session. Around 40 volunteers from five different Dunbar churches helped, and musicians from a range of churches contributed to a ‘Sing and Celebrate’ service.
The 36 knitted Bible scenes created by St George’s URC, Hartlepool included Noah’s Ark, Jacob’s Ladder, Moses and the Ten Commandments, the Good Shepherd (complete with 100 knitted sheep), the Last Supper, the Crucifixion and Breakfast on the Beach. Knitters from churches across Dunbar had worked together to create two new scenes to add to them: ‘Jesus Calms the Storm’ and ‘The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost’.
Val Hale from St Anne’s, Dunbar was inspired to suggest hosting the event after reading an article in a national newspaper: ‘As I read of the intention to knit “The Last Supper” turning into 36 knitted scenes that tour the country I couldn’t resist sending the article to our mission and discipleship group, and a little mischievously noting that it wasn’t coming to Scotland.’
‘I never imagined that it would lead to such an incredible event … knitting, felting, singing, storytelling and so much life and delight and laughter, bringing to life the stories and heart of the Bible.’
Bringing the Bible to life
Val ran storytelling sessions for children, including a P4 group from Dunbar Primary: ‘For me it was a particular joy to use the new scene that knitters from the churches across Dunbar created (“Jesus Calms the Storm”) in the storytelling’, she said.
One child said: ‘I’m not really good at reading so I would never be able to read the Bible and I don’t know that much about the Bible and all of the stories so that helped me understand what’s the story and who the main characters are and what they’re doing.’ Another said: ‘It made me understand it much more than I thought it would. Then I just realised the Bible isn’t just one story, there’s multiple different stories.’
Grown-ups were captivated, too. Fiona Dickson of Our Lady of the Waves, Dunbar, said: ‘It was interesting to be reminded of some of the Bible scenes I hadn’t really thought about in years, for example Daniel in the Lion’s Den and Samson and Delilah, but also see the more familiar ones, such as the story of Creation and the Nativity, from a new angle. I particularly liked the staging of the Last Supper on the Altar, which was very poignant. For all that it is made from simple materials, it’s striking.
‘The way the festival has brought people together is humbling. The organising must have been a logistical challenge, but it seems seamless. I’m sure every location does things differently, but St Anne’s seemed the perfect spot to welcome visitors. It has been a lovely weekend, being able to see such an unusual display, but also knowing that the teachings of the Bible continue to draw people closer together, whatever their particular brand of faith.’
St Anne’s, Dunbar extended thanks to all those who made the Knitted Bible Festival happen: St George’s URC, Hartlepool and all the volunteers from Belhaven and Spott Parish Church, Dunbar Baptist Church, Dunbar Parish Church and Our Lady of the Waves.
