If you take a stroll around the streets of Loughborough right now you’re sure to spot hundreds of windows emblazoned with bright, shining pictures.
This captivating artwork has been created to share love, light and hope in the community during these dark and gloomy days, as part of an initiative called Loughborough Streets of Light.
The response has been amazing, with hundreds of households, churches and even a few schools in the area, getting involved. So much so, the Loughborough Churches Partnership (LCP) - who started the campaign - have decided to extend it throughout lockdown and are encouraging everyone to get involved, no matter where you live around the diocese.
Helen Gardner is a member of St Barnabas Grange Park, within the LCP, and is involved with the project. She says: “Given that the next few weeks are going to be tough on all of us, we’re extending our Streets of Light project for lockdown to keep spreading a little light, hope and love in our community.
“It also means, if you haven’t had a chance to join in and would like to, there’s still time.”
Anything goes when it comes to decorating your windows in love, light and hope. Popular designs include sunshine and candles, stars, hearts and Disney characters.
“We believe Jesus is the light of the world, and He asks us to reflect that light,” says Helen. “We all have light and love in our homes, and we’re called to share those gifts and let the light shine out into our communities.”
And what a great way to be creative and witness our faith during these dark and challenging times.
The Streets of Light project has been running in Sheffield for a few years, but this year people have really taken on the challenge across the country with areas including Loughborough, Nottingham, Barnet and Tunbridge Wells getting involved.
“We’ve had loads of positive comments and we’re really pleased and thankful for the brilliant, creative effort people have gone to,” says Helen. “We just wanted to share something positive and encouraging for people, and are excited to keep the light shining in these challenging times.”
Helen says if you’re feeling inspired to get involved in your area, it’s a really easy, accessible project that literally brightens up people’s days and makes a difference in the community.
If you are able to share on social media, use #streetsoflight and #lightuplockdown
Let’s keep the Diocese of Leicester shining, and spread the word!
For more information, ideas and inspiration, visit www.lougboroughstreetsoflight.com