Holy Nativity Mixenden have recently celebrated their new altar frontal at one of their monthly Rock Mass services, for which the new frontal was designed.
On Sunday, March 15 the Rt Revd Smitha Prasadam, Bishop of Huddersfield, formally blessed the new altar frontal which was generously gifted by well-known artist and vestment designer Yvonne Bell.
The textile artwork was first displayed during the regular Family Eucharist as the whole community came together to thank Yvonne.
The inspiration for the piece emerged at the 2025 On Fire Mission Conference.
Yvonne, who often sketches as part of her prayer life, began drawing a band while reflecting during worship.
She then posed a question to the Revd Robb Sutherland, vicar at the church, who was leading the conference music: ‘What instrument would Jesus play?’
Their conversation led to a shared insight that Jesus would be on the drums, as the firm foundation on which all the other musicians in the band can build their melody.
Yvonne Bell said: “For me, art and prayer are deeply connected.
“As I sketched, I sensed a picture of Jesus at the centre of our worship, holding us together. The drummer sets the tempo — if they lose time, everything can fall apart.
“I wanted this piece to show Christ as the one who keeps us united, even when life feels out of step.”
The finished design features Jesus on drums alongside four musicians representing the diversity and inclusivity of the church community gathered in praise.
Musical notes incorporated into the textile are taken from the song ‘Jesus Christ is waiting, waiting in the streets’, underlining Holy Nativity’s commitment to serve beyond its walls.
Revd Robb said: “This beautiful frontal captures something essential about our call to build our lives upon firm foundations, the spiritual rock that is Christ.
“We are invited to build God's Kingdom together as God’s people, rooted in Christ’s rhythm and sent out to share hope in our community.
“It will inspire our worship for years to come.”