Church images credit copyright Chris Doyle 2025
What began as a simple initiative to bring new life to the church’s entrance through art inspired a group of young students who took on the task of painting the entrance arch at St James’ Church in Taunton. Nadia Wuyts and three other students from Taunton and Bridgwater College were given the privilege of painting the arch. Though it was part of their course the task became much more than just course work, it offered them an opportunity to think about their faith.
As Nadia explains in her own words.
My name is Nadia, and I had the privilege – along with three other students from Taunton and Bridgwater College – to paint the entrance arch of St James’ Church, thanks to a wonderful initiative by the local church. This project was part of our course, but it became so much more than just an assignment.
Our brief was to express the church’s heart – a place of Encountering, Growing, and Participating – through our artwork. Each section of the arch reflects these values:
On the right, one of my fellow students designed a tree, symbolizing the Tree of Life and Jesus’ command to remain in Him, the true vine. The nine words woven into the design represent the Fruit of the Spirit, reminding us that participating in God’s life transforms us.
The left side speaks of how we encounter God and grow as followers of Jesus, with Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments at the core of our shared faith. If you look closely, you’ll find meaningful symbols – the star announcing Jesus’ birth, the three crosses of His crucifixion, and Jonah’s story, which Jesus used to speak of His death and resurrection.
At the bottom left, colourful hands of all sizes represent the Gospel’s universal reach – for people of every race, age, and background.
But what touched me the most was not just the painting itself, but the impact this project had on my friends. Many of the students hadn’t stepped into a church for a long time, yet they found it to be a place of peace, welcome and warmth. One student asked for a Bible and began reading it for herself. Another shared how she had distanced herself from faith but felt reconnected through this experience.
I never imagined this project would spark such deep conversations and draw others in. One day, five young people sat in the side chapel – one playing the piano, another reading the Bible, all of them simply soaking in the peace of the space. It was a moment of unexpected grace.
I am beyond grateful to everyone who made this possible – to those who facilitated the project, provided materials, and even made sure we were well-fed throughout the week! You didn’t just give us paints and brushes; you gave us an experience that touched hearts and opened doors to faith in new ways.
Paul’s words to the Ephesians couldn’t be more fitting:
“God can do anything, you know – far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.” (Ephesians 3:20, The Message)
This experience will stay with me always.
This article first appeared in the St James' Church Magazine