Member Spotlight: Sarah

This is the first in a series of blog posts where we invite one of the members of YouBelong to share something about themselves. Today we are thrilled to have Sarah share her process of Prayer Painting.

I have a small 12cm square sketchbook that I use as a prayer and paint space.

My process is to seek a single prompt word: this one was ‘surrounded’.

I then sit with it and pray. As I pray I build a painting. These are simple and loose and connected normally to the prompt in some way. Then I seek a verse that ‘wraps up’ my prayer.

I am chronically ill and disabled. That, in itself brings for me lots of challenges…but it also brings me gifts. I have the gift of time. I have learnt to paint small on low energy days. I often paint loose and relaxed and in this sketchbook I paint on the left page and write on the right…no tearing out! That’s helps me with accepting my imperfections just as God loves me in my imperfect self.

Creativity draws me into the loving arms of God who is the ultimate creative. I feel the presence of the Holy Spirit dancing with me across the page as I paint.

What a blessing to share this time with the one who made me, loves me and calls to me ❤️

The following paintings relate to our monthly Psalm which this month is Psalm 143.

At YouBelong we hold creative sessions four times each month. Two are Bible journalling sessions inspired by the monthly Psalm. Two are mindful art sessions where people gather informally to chat, create and pray together.

If you would like to know more about YouBelong, join us and come along to our sessions then you can email us at info@youbelong.org.uk or complete the form at this link https://www.youbelong.org.uk/contact