Volume 2020 Parnassus

Letter from the Editor

If we had our way, this journal would have been published and in our hands months ago. We would have first shared these stories in flesh, blood, and voice, relishing in the community and company that so suddenly evaporated due to COVID-19. We have endured a disconcerting and unexpected separation—we have had to learn how to do life together without “togetherness,” but perhaps we have adapted our lens of what that “togetherness” ought to be, and hopefully, we have realized what to cherish ever more deeply. All we can do now is move forward with faith and open hands; at this point, certainty seems like precarious territory.

Last fall, as a staff, we chose the theme “Luminescence” because we wanted to look to light, to hope. The future ahead would have been unfathomable at the time, but I am grateful that our past selves made such a decision: in the midst of obscurity, we crave glimmers of light. Stained glass beckons the light and unfolds its beauty in a dance of reds, blues, greens, and yellows, and while the mosaic creates a complete picture, its loveliness is amplified by the differences of each individual piece. Our campus holds an abundance of cultures, contexts, and visions, yet together, we form one body that is unified by the light and hope that we have in Christ—in turn, we can then illuminate spaces through our faith and art.

To the artists of our community: We are honored that you would say and show us things that only you can say and show us. As Annie Dillard says, “you were made and set here to give voice to this, your own astonishment,” your own obsession that has been cultivated by who God has continually created you to be. Thank you for sharing your stories—for sharing pieces of yourselves.

To the Parnassus staff and designer of 2020: This journal only exists because of your input, tenacity, and thoughtfulness. We began with nothing, and we now have a tangible “thing.” Be proud of yourselves! Thank you so much for your hard work and creative sensibilities.

To Dr. Housholder, the faculty advisor: I am so grateful for your endless encouragement and wisdom. Thank you for guiding us as we ventured into the unfamiliar while also giving us space to make decisions and grow as artists.

And to you, the reader: Savor the rich fruit held within these pages. I hope that you find these pieces challenging, healing, and delightful for your soul. I certainly have.

Sincerely,