ROCK ISLAND — More than 20 artists will share their vision of how God is “Rich in Mercy” during the Fifth Annual Art of Faith Show and Sale, which is planned for Saturday, March 5, and Sunday, March 6. It will be held in Farrell Hall of St. Pius X Church, 2901 24th St.

As part of the fifth anniversary celebration, Father Thomas Loya of Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church in Homer Glen will speak about the sacred icons and images he has written on Thursday, March 3, from 7 to 9 p.m. This presentation will also take place in Farrell Hall.

Founder Jill Rodts said this year’s theme for the juried art show and sale is taken from Ephesians 2:4-10: “God, who is rich in mercy, because of the great love he had for us . . . brought us to life with Christ.”

Iowa sculptor Paul Alguesva II is among the artists who will be displaying their work at the Art of Faith Show and Sale March 5-5 at St. Pius X Parish’s Farrell Hall in Rock Island. (Provided photo)

“Everything created here at the Art of Faith Show glorifies God and it is done with prayer and reverence for the greater glory of God,” Rodts told The Catholic Post.

“We attribute the show’s success to God and the prayers of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” she said. “Since the very first Art of Faith Show we dedicated this celebration of our faith to our Lord Jesus Christ and the Blessed Mother Mary.”

The art forms represented include bronze sculpture, wood saw scrolling, paper cutting, stained class, pottery prayer jars, painting, drawing, jewelry, calligraphy, acrylic and egg tempera painting, poetry, handmade greeting cards, rosaries, and artistic cookies.

“There’s a diversity of gifts, but we’re of one heart and mind,” Rodts said. “It’s beautiful to see the gifts present.”

She encouraged those who attend to ask the artists about their work and said they are also willing to talk about their faith and what inspires them.

PAPER CUTTING WORKSHOP OFFERED

Among the musicians who will be performing on Saturday, starting at 2 p.m., are Father Charles Klamut, pastor of St. Ambrose in Milan and chaplain at Alleman High School, and Harper’s Delight, a group of five instrumental harps. Harpist Lydia Olson will play from 10 to 11 a.m. on Sunday, with the Jordan Catholic School Choir following at noon and the Moline Boys Choir performing at 1 p.m.

In addition, Keith Bonnstetter will offer a paper cutting workshop at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday. The cost is $10, which covers supplies and supports the Art of Faith ministry. To register, send an email to jmr415@dishmail.net.

Rodts said those who come will not go hungry. Chicken and dumplings, a drink and dessert will be available for purchase on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday, breakfast foods will be offered after the 7 and 9 a.m. Masses, with lunch offered after the 11 a.m. Mass.

The show is open to the public from 2 to 7 p.m. on March 5 and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 6. Rodts said that while there is no charge to attend, donations will be accepted.

For a full schedule and more information, visit visionillustration.com and click on the tab for “Art of Faith.”