Symbolic design refers to an arrangement
which consists of elements representing something else. For example a dove may
be a symbol of peace; grapes and wheat or bread may represent Holly
Communion or Eucharist. The color or numbers of an element may also become part
of the symbolic interpretation. Three white flowers may represent the Trinity
and the proximity or relationship of one material to another must also be
considered. Symbolic arrangements may be designed with a general or specific
theme.
All Things Are Possible
This design was created for the "Celebration of The Arts" for
the Washington Association, Vermont Conference, United Church of Christ program.
It was balanced on the point of the iron base while spinning on a turntable.
Communion - Giving and Receiving
This design was created for a communion service. The top
portion of the display represents "Receiving" as you look at your
hands with palms facing you. "Giving" is represented by the bottom
portion of the display as you lower your hands with palms up in a giving motion.
Easter Arrangement
12
Calla lilies – 12 Disciples, Red Amaryllis with 3 blooms – Trinity and the
blood that was shed, Wheat and grapes – Eucharist, Vase filled with water –
Changing of water into wine at the wedding feast, Basket with bread and fish –
Feeding of the multitude, Stone – The stone rolled from the tomb, Fish net –
The calling to become fishers of men, Votive candle – Christ as light of the
world, Small flowers at the base – The multitudes that followed Jesus and
Bible at the base – The word of God is the foundation of the world.
Ecclesiastical Council Arrangement
Statement of Faith
This
arrangement is a visual representation of my statement of faith. Some of the
elements have two different symbolic meanings. One represents my journey in life
and the other my spiritual walk in Christ. Both are entwined and cannot be
separated.
The
ceramic base represents the foundation of my faith in the church from which my
journey flows. On life’s journey we face many obstacles and trials as
represented by the wild thorn-apple wreath but overcome by Christ’s
crucifixion – the crown of thorns. The ivy is God’s never-ending love that
will always be with me. The three white calla lilies are for the Trinity. The
placements are very important as the tallest represents God the Father and the
next just slightly lower but above the wreath represents Jesus the Son. The
third and lowest, below the wreath is the Holy Spirit who lives within us. Also
note the upward direction of the two calla lilies representing Jesus and the
Holy Spirit as they are looking toward the God. The white lily represents Mary,
Mother of Jesus. The abundance of wheat, barley, fruits and berries are for the
abundant blessings that I have received. They also represent God’s promise of
seedtime and harvest. The grapes and wheat remind us of the table of life, the
Holy Communion. The multitude of flowers at the base represent the love and
support not only of my church family, but of friends and relatives as I start on
this new and uncharted journey. The one candle placed directly under the tallest
calla lily or under God represents not only Christ as
light of the world but my call, taking the talent and gifts given to me and
sharing with others the ministry of flowers. Ned Davis AIFD,
CFD, CMLFD
Commissioning Arrangement
This
thank you arrangement was placed on the table during my commissioning service.
It was to thank all who have supported me during my life as I worked on the
Ministry of Flowers.
The
large ceramic dish represents the foundation of the church in my life. The three
white calla lilies are the Trinity. The loving memories of my parents are
represented with foliage for my father and the violet for my mother who always
encouraged and supported me in all that I did. The abundance of flowers at the
base represents my friends, relatives and those in the floral industry in the
United States, Canada, England and Australia who encouraged and supported me
over the years as I developed my floral design skills. One of the tall candles
represents my former retired pastor the Reverend Paul Willard who gave me the
freedom to be creative when designing church flowers. The large pillar candle
represents my three-year biblical studies class at the Vermont Academy of
Spiritual Training, my classmates and instructors. The last tall candle
represents my current pastor, the Reverend Peter Plagge. Peter has helped me
develop and understand my Spiritual walk on this new journey. Too all I give
thanks. Ned L. Davis AIFD, CFD, CMLFD
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