Talking Bouquets: Musings on Beautification in the Liturgy

The event entitled, “The Fruit of the Earth and Work of Human Hands” was held on the 22nd of October 2024, through a noble collaboration with the Ignatian Spirituality Formation (ISF) and the Office of Campus Ministry (OCM), organized by the Ateneo College Ministry Group (ACMG). The event unfolded in two parts: first, a catechetical discourse, and second, the workshop proper.

Sir Joselito “Joey” Mercado opened the event by extolling the beauty and sanctity of the liturgy, thereby setting an uplifting tone for the evening. As the program progressed, Sir Barth led an edifying discussion, sharing his insights on the role of floristry in the liturgical arts. The catechetical discourse proved abundantly fruitful, with reflections on God’s language as beauty itself, and on floristry’s humble, accentuating role within the liturgy, rather than an overpowering one. While there may be a great deal of contention over the appropriateness of floristry in the spirit of sustainability, which was also prefaced by Sir Barth, our efforts in reducing the unsustainable practices involved with this task greatly contribute to the goal of sustainability.

A photograph of the pre-workshop discussion

Following the catechetical discussion, the workshop began with a brief demonstration of floral arrangements. Sir Barth emphasized the value of guided independence in the artistry of floristry, which allowed each participant to conceive and realize their own ideal of a beautiful floral composition.

The floral arrangement demonstration

Upon completing our arrangements, participants shared their insights, with one in particular observing that floral arrangement, in its many forms, manifests love as represented through the placement, choice, and structure of the flowers. Although, as other participants have mentioned, they labored but briefly, they found this activity fostered a deep sense of unity and understanding among themselves.

As the event drew to a close, ACMG President Ryan Quero offered concluding remarks, re-emphasizing the wisdom inherent in floral arrangements and their importance in the liturgical beautification. With the last participant departing around 19:45, the team offered the completed arrangements around campus, resulting in a total of eleven exquisite displays.

The organization is deeply grateful to the ISF and the OCM, whose guidance and unwavering support brought this humble concept into fruition. This collaboration truly propelled this humble idea into fruition.

Group photo with Sir Barth Mariquit and some campus ministers

The different flower arrangements were offered at the altar

By: Van Kenshin T. Mamuad, 2 AB Political Science